LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 

t\S'Q\q 



WW — it 



tifrr 



Shelf |£ 8 y 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 




THE 




Independent Order of Odd Fellows' 



RITUALISTIC, SECRET, AND FLOOR WORK. 



COMPLETE AND AS REVISED. 

CONSISTING OF THE ENTIRE WORK OF 

THE LODGE ROOM, 

(ritual work) 

V AND 

SECRET WORK, 

LETTER PERFECT. 

ALSO, THE 

NEW BEAUTIFIED FLOOR W0F.K. 

Copyright 1887, by F. WALKER. 



All Complete in One Volume, 

Price, One Doll M ^CP pYRle ''r" / 

Publishers : 

CHAS. SIMCOE AND COMPANY, 
171 Race St., Cincinnati, O. 



HStoyq 



fHIS work is a complete and revised edition of the 
Ritual for a Subordinate Lodge of the I. O. O. F., 
as it was adopted at the Annual Session of the R. W. 
Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Independent Order of 
Odd Fellows, at the city of Toronto, Province of 
Ontario, Canada, on the 22nd day of September, 1880. 

At the Annual Session there were present — 



Officers of the Sovereign Grand Lodge, 
Nine Members. 



Representatives of State Grand Lodges, 
Eighty-six in number. 



Representatives of State Grand Encampments, 
Fifty-eight in number. 



( 

I 



Past Grand Sires of the Sovereign Grand Lodge, 
Five in number. 



The committee by whom the work was matured and 
reported in 1880 was composed of — 



THIRTEEN MEMBERS. 



The Committee of 1882. 
The committee to alter and revise the Ritual of 
Subordinate Lodges, appointed at' the Annual Session 
of the Sovereign Grand Lodge at Cincinnati, Ohio, 
September, 1881, was composed of — 



FIVE MEMBERS. 



DIAGRAM OF A LODGE ROOM. 



:sec'y. 



a: 




WARDEN. CONDUCTOR. 



LODGE BOOM. 



s.s. 



s.s. 




:[] 



I. S. GUAR'N. 



Vestibule or 
Reception Room. 



J 



s s 



Door. 

Ante or 
Preparation Room. 



This Diagram is intended to show the position of the various 
Officers of a Subordinate Lodge. 






REGULATIONS 

FOR OPENING AND CLOSING THE LODGE, 



OPENING THE LODGE. 



Noble Grand. Officers, take your respective stations. 
Guardians, secure the doors. 

[After the Guardians have closed the doors, no one shall be 
admitted into the Lodge until it is regularly opened.] 

Noble Grand. Warden, examine the Brethren in the 
Lodge-room. 

[It is the duty of the Warden to receive the P. W. of the 
current term and the P. W. of the Third Degree from every 
member before the Lodge is opened. He is not required to re- 
spond with any part of the passwords. If any one is present 
without the P. W. of the current term or the P. W. of the Third 
Degree, the Warden shall so report to the Noble Grand.] 

[Having made the examination, and finding all correct, he 
will report :] 

Warden. All is right, Noble Grand. 

Noble Grand. Vice Grand, what is your duty in the 
Lodge? 

Vice Grand. To act in conjunction with you in main- 
taining order ; to require brethren to be decorous during 
Lodge hours; to enforce, in your absence, a due observ- 
i ance of the laws ; and to assist you in the performance of 
your duties. 

Noble Grand. Vice Grand, examine your supporters. 

Vice Grand. Right Supporter, what is your duty? 



6 FORM OF OPENING. 

Bight Supporter. To observe that brothers give the 
signs correctly and behave properly ; to report to you 
the names of such brothers as do not conduct themselves 
according to the regulations of the Order; and to oc- 
cupy your chair temporarily when vacated by you during 
Lodge hours. 

Vice Grand. Left Supporter, what is your duty? 

Left Supporter. To act in conjunction with your Right 
Supporter, and to officiate for him in his absence. 

Vice Grand. My officers are correct, Noble Grand. 

Noble Grand. Secretary, what is your duty ? 

Secretary. To keep accurate minutes of the transac- 
* tions of this Lodge. [ When the duties are divided between 
a Recording and a Permanent Secretary the answer of the 
Recording Secretary ends here, and the Permanent Secre- 
tary gives the remainder, .] To keep correctly the accounts 
between this Lodge and its members, without prejudice 
or partiality ; to receive all moneys due this Lodge, and 
pay the same to the Treasurer. 

Noble Grand. Warden, what is your duty ? 

Warden. To examine the brethren with circumspec- 
tion before the Lodge is opened ; to give the charge of 
office at the initiation of a candidate ; to perform such 
other duties as may be required of me in conferring the 
degrees ; to place and replace the regalia in a careful 
way, and to report to you any damage it may have re- 
ceived. 

Noble Grand. Right Supporter, what is your duty ? 

Right Supporter. To support you in keeping order ; to 
execute your commands ; to assist at the initiation of a 
candidate ; to open and close the Lodge in due form, and 
to see that the signs are given correctly. 

Noble Grana. Left Supporter, what is your duty? 



FORM OF OPENING. 7 

Left Supporter. To see that brothers who enter the 
room are in proper regalia and give the signs correctly ; 
to officiate for your Right Supporter in his absence, and 
to assist at the initiation of a candidate, 

Noble Grand. Outside Guardian, what is your duty? 

Outside Guardian. When candidates are to be initi- 
ated, or brothers admitted, to see that they are orderly 
and qualified according to Lodge rules; to examine and 
reject any one I suspect until your opinion is taken ; to 
receive the password previously to admission, and to 
guard the Lodge against improper intrusion. To pre- 
vent the admittance of any one during a making, or at 
other times, when so directed ; to prevent any person 
from listening to acquire a knowledge of what is going on 
in the Lodge, and to act in conjunction with the Sup- 
porters and the Inside Guardian in the execution of your 
commands. 

[The O. S. G. cannot admit a brother into the ante-room 
without the P. "W. of the current term, unless directed by the 
N. G., although he may be satisfied that the brother is a mem- 
ber of the Lodge. And he is not required to respond with any 
part of the P. W.] 

Noble Grand. Inside Guardian, what is your duty ? 

Inside Guardian. To act in conjunction with the Out- 
side Guardian ; to receive the password of the degree in 
which the Lodge is open ; during his absence to officiate 
for him, and obey your commands. 

[The I. S. G. is not required to respond with any part of the 
P. W's.] 

Noble Grand. Officers and Brothers, I hope and ex- 
pect each officer will do his duty, and that brothers will 
be orderly and attentive to the business of the evening, 
so that we may not be under the necessity of enforcing 
the restrictive laws or fines. It is a duty incumbent on 
the Noble Grand to judge impartially of every transac- 



8 FORM OF OPENING. 

tion, and to admit no brother (except a member of this 
Lodge) who has not received the password of the current 
term, and the password of the degree in which the Lodge 
is open.* I therefore trust that all will act with pru- 
dence, zeal, and integrity, as on the exercise of these 
virtues depend our happiness and comfort ; keeping in 
view that philanthropic principle by which we hail each 
other as brothers — regarding our Lodge as our family ; 
and whose ^actions, if founded on that grand principle, 
are calculated to make men social and humane. 

Officers and Brothers, I will thank you to be standing 
and assist my Eight Supporter in opening the Lodge. 

ODE. 

Brethren of our friendly Order, 

Honor here asserts her sway ; 
All within our sacred border 

Must her high commands obey. 
Join, Odd Fellowship of Brothers, 

In the song of Truth and Love. 
Leave disputes and strifes to others • 

We in harmony must move. 

Honor to her courts invites us— 

Worthy subjects let us prove. 
Strong the chain that here unites us 

Linked with Friendship, Truth, and Love; 
In our hearts, enshrined and cherished, 

May these feelings ever bloom — 
Failing not when life has perished, 

Living still beyond the tomb. 

Noble Grand. Officers and Brothers, advance the sign 
of the Third Degree. Right Supporter, proclaim this 
Lodge opened. 

Right Supporter. By direction of our Noble Grand, I 
proclaim this Lodge duly opened for the transaction of 

'"•'Note.— This is not to be so construed as to conflict with the duty to 
admit strangers having legal cards in their possession, or as otherwise 
specially provided for by the General Laws of the Sovereign Grand 
Lodge. 



ORDER OF BUSINESS. 9 

Stick business as may be lawfully brought before it, and 
for the diffusion of the principles of benevolence and 
charity. 

Noble Grand. During which time we admit of no 
political, sectarian, or other improper debate under 
penalty. 

[The Lodge is seated.] 

[The Lodge, at its option,, may open and close with praytr.] 

ORDER OF BUSINESS. 



[The Noble Grand, after affording an opportunity for those 
to enter who are in waiting, will proceed to business by giving 
one rap with his gavel, for siJence and order ; which will be 
repeated by the Vice Grand.] 

Noble Grand. Brother Secretary, I will thank you to 
call the roll of officers. 

Brother Secretary, you will now read the proceedings 
of the last Lodge night. 

Does any brother know of a sick brother or a brother 
in distress ? 

Previous proposals for membership will now be con- 
sidered 

Candidates will now be admitted and the Initiatory 
and other Degrees conferred. 

Has any brother a friend to propose to become a 
member of this Lodge ? 

Unfinished business appearing on the minutes will 
how be considered. 

Has any brother anything to offer for the good of the 
Order ? 

[The Lodge may now proceed to close after the necessary 
business is concluded.] 

[The trial of a brother, who has not attained the Third 
Degree, against whom charges may be preferred, shall take 



10 CLOSING THE LODGE. 

place in the highest degree to which he has attained, and the 
Lodge shall be specially opened in such degree for that 
purpose.] 

[All the Eules of Order for the transaction of business in the 
Third Degree shall be in force on such trial, except that the 
" Voting Sign " shall not be used ; the voting may be viva voce, 
by a division, or by ballot, as the local law may allow.] 



CLOSING THE LODGE. 



Noble Grand. Officers and Brothers, I will thank 
you to rise and assist me in closing the Lodge. 

ODE. 

Brothers, we thank you all 
For this your friendly call, 

Our hearts to cheer ; 
May peace her influence shed, 
And heaven its wings outspread, 
To guard each brother's head 

From pain and fear. 

Good night ! and, as you go, 
Bear hence and fully show, 

Stamped on your breasts, 
The seal of Friendship pure, 
And Love through life t' endure, 
And Truth, which, still secure 

With honor rests. 

Noble Grand. Vice Grand, I will thank you to per- 
form the last duty of your station. 

Vice Grand. Brethren, we thank you for your attend- 
ance this evening, and invite the company of as many 
of you as can make it convenient to attend at any future 
meeting. 



Opening and closing of degrees. 11 

Noble Grand. WardeD, what is the last duty of your 
station ? 

Warden. To collect the regalia and deposit it in its 
proper place. 

Noble Grand. Guardian, what is the last duty of your 
station ? 

Guardian. To open the door, that the brothers may 
depart in peace. 

Noble Grand. I will thank you to do that duty as 
soon as the Lodge is closed. 

Guardian. I will. 

Noble Grand. Right Supporter, I will thank you to 
perform the last duty of your station. 

Eight Supporter. By desire of our Noble Grand, I 
proclaim this Lodge closed until next Lodge night, at 
o'clock, when it will be re-opened for the trans- 
action of such business as may be lawfully brought before 
the Lodge, and for the diffusion of the principles of 
benevolence and charity. 

Noble Grand. I, therefore, declare this Lodge closed. 

[Giving one rap with his gavel, which is repeated by the 
Vice Grand.] 



INSTRUCTIONS FOR OPENING AND CLOSING IN 
THE INITIATORY AND OTHER DEGREES. 



[When a candidate is in waiting to receive the Initiatory 
Degree, the Noble Grand will call up the Lodge and say :] 

Noble Grand. Brothers, we are about to close the 
Lodge in the Third Degree to be opened in the Initia- 
tory Degree. Warden, you will declare accordingly. 



i2 OPENING AND CLOSING OF DEGREES. 

Warden. By direction of the Noble Grand I declare 
the Lodge closed in the Third Degree and open in the 
Initiatory Degree. 

[The countersign is not given in opening in the Initiatory 
Degree.] 

Noble Grand. Officers and Brothers, so be it. 

The Brothers respond — So be it. 

[The Lodge is seated.] 

[After the Initiatory Degree has b :en conferred, the Noble 
Grand will proceed as follows :] 

Noble Grand. [Calling up the Lodge.] Brothers, we 
are about to close the Lodge in the Initiatory Degree to 
re-open in the Third Degree. Warden, declare the 
Lodge closed in the Initiatory Degree. 

Warden. By direction of the Noble Grand I proclaim 
the Lodge closed in the Initiatory Degree. 

[The Lodge is seated.] 

Noble Grand. Those Brothers who have not taken 
the Third Degree will please retire. 

[After time has been given to allow those not in possession 
of the Third Degree to retire.] 

Noble Grand. Brothers, we are about to re-open the 
Lodge in the Third Degree. The Warden will examine 
in the password of the Third Degree. 

[After the examination has been made.] 

Warden. Noble Grand, I have examined the brothers 
and find them to be correct. 

Noble Grand. The brothers will rise [giving three blows 
of the gavel] and advance the sign of the Third Degree. 
Warden, declare the Lodge open in the Third Degree. 

Warden. By direction of the Noble Grand I declare 
the Lodge open in the Third Degree. 



SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS. 13 

Noble Grand. Officers and Brothers, so be it. 

The Brothers respond — So be it. 

[The Lodge is seated.] 

[The same ceremony must be observed in closing in the Ini- 
tiatory and opening in the First Degree. Also in closing in 
the First Degree and opening in the Second Degree. Also in 
closing in the Second Degree and opening in the Third 
Degree.] 

[Of course the Lodge can close in the Third Degree in the 
first instance and open in any of the lower degrees, as laid 
down for closing in the Third Degree and opening in the Ini- 
tiatory, and after conferring the degree, re-open in the Third 
Degree, or open in any other degree.] 

[In closing in a lower degree to open in a higher degree, an 
examination in the P. W. of the degree about to be opened in 
must always be made ; but in closing in a higher degree to 
open in a lower degree, no examination in the P. W. of the 
lower degree is necessary.] 

[In opening in any degree (except the Initiatory) the broth-* 
era must always advance the sign of the degree in which the 
Lodge is about to be opened.] 



SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS. 



The right of a Lodge to grant two or more degrees to a 
brother at the same time is left to local legislation. 

A Lodge can confer the degrees upon a member of another 
Lodge, provided he presents a certificate of his Lodge, that 
they have been voted him and paid tor, with a request that 
they be conferred. 

The Initiatory Degree can only be conferred by the Lodge 
in which the candidate has been elected a member. 

The Vice Grand's retiring password of the evening is only 
used when the Lodge is working in the Third Degree. 

In all the degrees, three raps call up the Lodge, and one rap 
seats the Lodge. 

The dramatic part of the degrees should be acted quite 
slowly. Proper pauses should occur between each event in 



14 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS. 

the drama, so that the candidate may be duly impressed with 
each incident. 

The work in the degrees must be done in regular numerical 
sequence, closing in one degree and opening in another, ac- 
cording to the number of the degrees. 

Any number of candidates may receive the First Degree at 
the same time, and in the Second Part, when David and Jona- 
than kneel, members should be assigned, one to each of the 
other candidates, who shall kneel with him and clasp hands 
in proper form, and unite in the covenant. Assistant Outside 
Conductors may be appointed to assist in such cases. 

VOTING. 

The Voting Sign is only used in the Third Degree, and must 
(in that degree) always be used, unless otherwise provided. 

Balloting for the degrees, including the Initiatory, must 
always be in the Third Degree. 

When the balloting takes place, the ballot-box shall be 
placed on a pedestal, near the centre of the room, and the 
Noble Grand shall supervise the balloting. 

ALAEMS. 

The regular alarm at the outer door of a Lodge is 

or, if a is used of the 

The O. S. G. should inquire the cause of all alarms at the 
outer door, though not given in the regular manner. If by an 
intruder, dismiss him ; if by a brother who can give the P. 
W., he shall admit him to the ante-room ; if by a visiting 
brother, he shall receive his card, admit the visitor to the ante- 
room, and deliver the card to the Inside Guardian, to be 
presented to the N. G. 

[The Entersign is the alarm at the doors.] 

PASSWOED OF THE CUEEENT TEEM. 

It is changed semi-annually, or otherwise, as the Grand 
Lodge of the jurisdiction may direct. 

It is determined upon by the Grand Master of the State, 
District, or Territorial Grand Lodge, who, at the installation 
of the officers of each Subordinate Lodge under his jurisdic- 
tion, causes it to be communicated to the N. G. and V. G. of 
such Lodge. After his installation, the N. G. shall himself, or 
by the Warden, or other member of his Lodge, give the P. 
W. privately, to each member of the Lodge who shall be pres- 
ent and entitled to receive it. 



SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS. 15 

No brother is authorized to give the P. W. of the current 
term to any brother, unless specially directed to do so by the 
N. G. 

The P. "VV, of the current term is always to be given in full. 

Grand Officers visiting Subordinate Lodges are required to 
give the P. W. of the current term before entering the outer 
door. 

SIGNS. 

No officer or member can enter or retire from the Lodge- 
room, when the Lodge is open, without the proper sign or signs 
[addressing the Chairs], in the Initiatory, or in any other degree 
in which the Lodge may, at the time, be working. In the 
Initiatory Degree this does not apply to the 0. S. Conductor 
when he brings in the candidate to be initiated, nor to the 
Warden when he conducts the candidate to the ante-room, by 
order oi the Noble Grand. Nor does it apply to the officers 
who are allowed by the degree ritual to enter or retire without 
addressing the Chairs. The Elected Officers, when admitted 
in proceesion for installation do not address the Chairs. 

The K. S. of the N. G. does not answer the signs when that 
officer is in the chair. The K. S., when occupying the chair 
of the N. G. temporarily, does what the N. G. would do if he 
were in the chair ; not only is he to answer the countersign, 
when addressed, but he can entertain a motion, put the ques- 
tion, and declare the results- 
It is complimentary to the presiding officer of a Lodge, 
when rising to address the Chair, to make the countersign, 
but it is not obligatory on members to do so. 

No signs are to be made in opening or closing in the Initia- 
tory Degree. 

KEGALIA. 

No brother shall be permitted to sit, speak, or vote in a 
Subordinate Lodge, unless he shall be clothed with the regalia 
appropriate to his rank and station in such Lodge. 

In a Subordinate Lodge a Past Grand must be clothed with 
a Past Grand's regalia, and a Third Degree member with 
Scarlet Degree regalia, etc. 

CHAKTER. 
A Charter! is deemed to be in the Lodge when it is in the 

•'•'• The R. S. of the N G., when .acting for that officer, cannot give the 
P.W.ofC.T.to members; nor any one officiate for the N. G. at an 
initiation, except as provided by law. 

tA Warrant, confirmed by the Sovereign Grand Lodge of the 
I. 0. 0. F.. is recognized by law as a Charter. 



16 VISITING. 

ante-room. The ante-room, for all working purposes, is the 
Lodge-room. 

BIBLE. 

The Holy Bible is an integral part of Odd Fellowship, and 
is so regarded by the Sovereign Grand Lodge of the I. O. O. 
F., and it must be present in every Lodge while open for 
business. 



VISITING BY CARD OR OTHERWISE. 



A member of a Subordinate Lodge, under the jurisdiction of 
a different Grand Lodge, wishing to visit a Lodge, shall deliver 
his card to the O. S. G., who shall admit him into the ante- 
room, and hand the card to the I. S. G., who presents it to the 
N. G., by whom it is laid before the Lodge. 

If found correct, the N. G. shall appoint a committee of 
three members to examine the brother. The V. G., N. G., or 
P. G. in possession of the A. T. P. W., must be one of the 
committee. 

The committee withdraw to the ante-room. The member in 
possession of the A. T. P. W. secretly examines the brother 
and ascertains his knowledge of the A. T. P. W. The P. W. 
to be lettered, and the visiting brother to commence with any 
part of the word he may think proper. 

If the examining brother be satisfied, the visitor shall then 
be examined by the committee. 

First, As to his identity, by causing him to write his name, 
which shall be compared with his signature on the card. A 
brother is required to write his name on his card, and it is 
proper for a Lodge to keep a book in which to register visitors' 
names. 

Second, By examining him upon the work, up to the degree 
in which the Lodge is opened, and, in case of doubt, he may 
be examined in the other degrees. 

The passwords of the several degrees are to be lettered with 
the same care as the A. T. P. W., when visiting brethren are 
under examination by a committee— the visitor in all cases to 
commence. 

When satisfied, the committee shall, after requiring the 
brother to clothe himself with the regalia of the highest degree 
in which he has proved himself, conduct him into the Lodge, 



VISITING. 17 

if the Lodge is open in that degree or any lower degree (the 
brother does no' work his way in), giving the proper alarm at 
the door and proceed as follows : 

Committee and visiting brother advance to the centre of the 
room and address the N. G. with the countersign. Hi replies 
with the same sign. Turning, the committee and visiting 
brother address the V. G. with the contersign. He replies with 
the same sign. Then turning to the N. G., they give the sign 
of the degree in which the Lodge is open ; the N. G. will 
answer with the proper sign. The visiting brother is then, by 
one of the committee, introduced, by his name and rank, to 
the N. G., who shall call up the Lodge and briefly acknowl- 
edge the visitor as a brother — whtn, at the sound of the gavel, 
the members shall be seated. 

If, on examination, the card does not satisfy the require- 
ments of the law, or if the committee shall report the visitor 
not correct, the card shall be returned to him, and he be 
refused admi a sion. 

It the visiting brother be an Elective Officer, or a Past 
Officer of a Grand Lodge, the N. G. shall raise the Lodge 
before the visitor enters the Lodge room (as the door is opened), 
and, when introduced (after addressing the Chairs), he shall 
be acknowledged with the Honors of the Order. 

The Honors are to be given only when the Lodge is open in 
the Third Degree. 

The Honors are to be given to all Elective and Past Grand 
Officers, when visiting Subordinate Lodges officially, or when 
their titles are announced at a visitation. 

When a Grand Officer announces himself as such, it is to be 
presumed that he is on official business. 

The Honors should be given on the retiring of an officer en- 
titled to them (after he has addressed the Chairs), and it is not 
his privilege to decline them. 

I the visiting brother shall be introduced by a Grand Rep- 
resentative or other Elective Officer of the Grand Lodge to 
which the Lodge is subordinate, he shall be received and ac- 
knowledged in similar form, with similar ceremonies (as if 
introduced by a committee), according to his rank and station. 

A Subordinate Lodge has not the right to examine a visitor 
in the Grand Lodge Degree or in any of the Past Official 
Degrees. The rank of a brother receiving a card shall always 
be expressed thereon. But a P. G. has the right to wear the 
regalia designating him &s such, although he may not have 
had the Past Official Degrees, or may not be a member of a 
Grand Lodge, or if his rank be not expressed on the card. 



18 CONFERRING TU£ INITIATORY DEGJEiEfi. 

A visiting brother who has been in the Lodge, and wishes to 
re-enter, may be admitted with the V. G's P. W. of the even- 
ing (if the Lodge is open iu the Third Degree), which is 
given at the inner door. The presentation of his card at the 
outer door will secure his admission to the ante-room. 



CONFERRING THE INITIATORY DEGREE. 

- — ; 

When a candidate is to be initiated, after he has been elected, 
and it has been announced to the Noble Grand that he is in 
waiting, it will be the duty of that officer to appoint a Past 
Grand or the Vice Grand to act as Outside Conductor, who will 
retire to the ante or preparation room, receive the candidate, 
propound to him the questions laid down in the Charge-Book, 
record the answers received (which must be signed by the can- 
didate and attested by the Outside Conductor), and require of 
him the 'primary obligation necessary for all persons to take prior 
to initiation.— (Page 19.) 

While this is being done, the Warden, by direction of the 
Noble Grand, will prepare the Lodge room for the initiation. 
The officers shall clothe themselves appropriately, and the 
members shall each be furnished a mask or blind, not of a 
ludicrous nature. • 

When the Outside Conductor has performed his duty he will 
report to the Noble Grand. 

It the answers are unsatisfactory the Outside Conductor shall 
receive directions as to further proceedings. 

When every thing is ready in the Lodge the Noble Grand 
will request the outside conductor to retire, prepare, and intro- 
duce the candidate. The Noble Grand will then place the 
Lodge under the charge of the Vice Grand, while he (the Noble 
Grand) retires behind, or the curtain is dropped before him, in 
accordance with the work. 

During an initiation the Noble Grand shall wear a scarlet 
robe ; the Vice Grand, a blue robe ; the Warden and Conductor, 
each a black robe ; and the Scene Supporters, each a white robe; 
and all of said officers shall wear caps color of their robes. No 
officer or member shall wear caps or robes, except as hereinafter 
provided. The Conductor and Scene Supporters shall, during 
an initiation, bear wands color of their robes ; the Supporters 
of the Noble Grand and Vice Grand shall bear wands color of 
the robes of the officers they support ; and the Warden shall 
bear a staff. 



THE CHARGE BOOK. 19 

THE CHARGE BOOK. 



SPECIAL DIRECTIONS. 



Each Lodge must have prepared a convenient book, with its 
pages ruled and divided into columns, in the left-hand column 
of which are to be written or printed as many copies of the sub- 
joined questions as the page will conveniently admit of, and 
the right-hand column to be left blank, in order that the an- 
swers given may be written by the candidate or the Outside 
Conductor directly opposite the questions to which they belong, 
after which the person answering is to subscribe his proper 
name at the bottom of his answers ; and the Past Grand or Vice 
Grand officiating as Outside Conductor is to subscribe his also, 
in attestation of the signature of the candidate. All this pre- 
liminary examination must take place in the ante-room, where 
pen and ink may be arranged for the purpose. The questions 
to be propounded are the following : 



QUESTIONS. 



ANSWERS. 



1. What is your name ? 

2. Where do you reside ? 

3. What is your occupation? 

4. How old are you? 

5. Do you hold membership in, or 

are you suspended or expelled 
from any Lodge of this Order? 

6. Are you, so far as you know, in 

sound health? 

7. Do you believe in the existence 
of aSupreme Intelligent Being, 



[Signature of Candidate.] 



the Creator and Preserver of the i Attest. [Sig. Outside Conductor.) 
Universe? [Date.] 



Should any of the above questions not be answered satisfac- 
torily the Outside Conductor will dismiss the candidate from 
the room and report to the Lodge. If, however, they be all 
satisfactorily answered, the Outside Conductor will say to the 
candidate : "Are you willing to enter into an obligation to keep 
secret all that may transpire during your initiation?" If this be 
assented to the Outside Conductor will require of the candidate 
a promise in these words : li I hereby pledge my sacred honor that 
I will keep secret whatever may transpire during my initiation." 



FORM OF INITIATION. 



[The Outside Conductor, having completed the examination, 
shall prepare the candidate by (blindfolding) him, and approach 
the inner door with the candidate, and give the usual alarm.] 

Inside Guardian. Who comes there ? 

Outside Conductor. The Outside Conductor, with a 
stranger who desires to be initiated into the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows. 

Inside Guardian. The Outside Conductor, with a 
stranger who desires to be initiated into the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows. 

Vice Grand. Admit him. 

[The door being opened, and the room partially darkened, 
the candidate shall be received at the threshold by the Conduc- 
tor of the Lodge in a dignified and courteous manner, and be ad- 
vanced a few paces into the Lodge room.] 

[The Scene Supporters shall accompany the candidate, with 
the conductor, around the room from the time he is admitted 
and until the candidate is introduced to the Noble Grand; but 
at no time shall the Warden accompany the Conductor with 
the candidate.] 

CONDUCTOR'S CHARGE. 

Conductor. You are now within a lodge of Odd Fel- 
lows. Here the world is shut out — you are separated 
from its cares and distinctions, its dissensions and its 
vices. Here Friendship and Love assert their mild do- 
minion, while Faith and Charity combine to bless the 
mind with peace and soften the heart with sympathy. 
Those who surround you have all assumed the obliga- 
tions and endeavor to cherish the sentiments peculiar to 
Odd Fellowship. But before you can unite with them 



FORM OF INITIATION. 21 

you must pass through an initiatory ceremony, which will 
ultimately lead you to primary truth. Are you willing 
to proceed ? 

Candidate Answers. 

Conductor. Be patient, therefore, and firm. Brothers ! 
the stranger now awaits our mystic rites. 

Right Scene Supporter. Then at once the chains pre- 
pare ! 

Left Scene Supporter. They are here ! Entwine their 
links about him ! [Reaching the chains and assisting in 
placing them. This being done.'] Now ! bind him to the 
stake ! 

Conductor. Hold ! Brothers ! shall we proceed with 
these our mystic rites, or shall we mercy show ? 

Vice Grand and Brothers. [Slowly and in a low tone of 
voice.'] Mercy ! mercy — show ! 

Conductor. Then mercy I will show, but will first a 
solemn warning give. \_To the Supporters.] Lead on our 
friend. 

[Passing slowly around the room.] 

[A procession may .be formed as follows : 

Conductor. 

Scene, supported by four brothers, with or without black gowns. 

Scene Supporters, with lighted candles. 

Two or more brothers, with or without black gowns. 

Outside Conductor, escorting candidate.] 

[A gong may be slowly and lightly sounded, a bell be tolled, 
or an organ be played, while the procession is moving around 
the room.] 

Conductor. Man, in darkness and in chains! How 
mournful the spectacle ! Yet it is but the condition of 
millions of our race, who are void of wisdom though 
they know it not. We have a lesson to impart to him — 



22 FORM OF INITIATION. 

one of great moment and deep solemnity ; a faithful Ex- 
hibition of the vanity of worldly things — of the instabil- 
ity of wealth and power — of the certain decay of all 
earthly greatness. \_The scene being reached as arranged, 
the Scene Supporters stationed at either end of the scene, 
each holding a lighted candle in his hand, the Outside Con- 
ductor begins to take off the , the Conductor say- 
ing at the same time :] Be serious, for our lesson is as 

melancholy as it is truthful. [ The being off J] 

Behold a representation of the effect of Death ! That 
silent but impressive lecturer — to vice, confusion, but to 
virtue, peace— is all that remains on earth of one who 
was born as you were born; who lived as you now live; 
who for many days enjoyed his possessions, his powers, 
and his pleasures. But, now alas! nothing is left of him 
save that sad memorial of man's mortality. The warm 
heart which throbbed for others' woes, or the cold one 
which held no sympathy, has mouldered away and joined 
its kindred dust ! Contemplate the scene ! 

[A solemn dirge may be sung, or be played upon the organ.] 

Should it not humble human pride ? Should it not 
awake the soul to a just sense of responsibility to its 
God — of duty to itself? And in view of this, the com- 
mon lot of all, should it not enlist the tenderest of human 
sympathies? My friend, that gloomy monitor is but an 
emblem of what you are sure to be, and what you may 
soon become. Seriously meditate the solemn admonition 
it affords; ponder it well, and see that your own heart 
fosters not Evil — the bane of society, the fountain of all 
wrong, the progenitor of crime, hatred, and violence, 
whose consequences must continue to afflict mankind un- 
til that period to which Hope looks forward with ardent 
joy, when one law shall bind all nations, tongues, and 
kindreds of the earth — and that law will be the law of 
Universal Brotherhood. 

Right Scene Supporter. I have seen the rose in its 
beauty spread its leaves to the morning sun. I returned, 



FORM OF INITIATION. 23 

and behold ! it was dying upon the stalk. Its grace and 
form were gone ; its loveliness was vanished away ; its 
leaves were scattered to the ground, and no one gathered 
them again. I have seen man in the pride of his 
strength ; his cheeks glowed with beauty ; his limbs were 
full of activity; he walked, he ran, he leaped, he re- 
joiced in that he was more excellent than the rose. I re- 
turned, and behold ! life was departed from him, and the 
breath from out of his nostrils. Death is in the world, 
and the spoiler is among the works of the Almighty. 
All that is born must die. 

Left Scene Supporter. I have seen the leaves fall and 
lie thick upon the ground ; I have heard the wintry 
blasts sing sad requiems over their decay ; and yet spring 
came, the soft zephyrs played among the branches ; they 
budded forth again ; and in the place of death there was 
life, beauty, and joy. 

Conductor. [Again blinds the candidate.'] You may 

think it strange, my friend, that we thus you ; 

its symbolic purpose will in due time be fully explained. 

[The candidate is then led to the Warden,* where, the blind 
being removed, the Conductor says :] 



This, my friend, is our venerable Warden. He has a 
charge to deliver to you ; listen attentively to what he 
may say. Assist him to rise. 

Warden. Stand, presumptious mortal ! How old art 
thou? 

Candidate answers. 

Warden. What trade, profession, or calling hast 
\ thou? 

Candidate answers. 

Warden. Canst thou keep a secret? 

•'•'The use of a tent, for any purpose, in a Subordinate Lodge, is an 
! innovation inconsistent with our work, and can not be allowed. 



24 FORM OF INITIATION. 

Candidate answers. 

Warden. Ah! but wilt thou? 

Candidate answers. 

Warden. Be serious, then, while I address you as a 
man. Listen to the voice of wisdom, speaking from age 
and experience, and let it sink deep into your heart. 
These trembling limbs and this wrinkled brow betoken 
that the weight of years is upon me. I have indeed seen 
years, and many solemn changes have passed before me. 
A wise man has said, " I have been young and now am 
old, yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, or his seed 
begging bread." I would impress this upon your mind, 
and add another maxim, which I pray you also heed and 
be wise. It is this : that in the practice of Friendship, 
Love, and Truth will be found the best safeguard against 
the ills of life. Forget it not ! Forget it not ! 

Brother Conductor, you will now present the stranger 
to the Vice Grand. 

[The candidate is then blindfolded, and the Conductor escorts 
him to the Vice Grand's chair, and says to him: ] 

You are now at the chair of our worthy Vice Grand. 

[While the candidate is before the Vice Grand the Support- 
ers of that officer shall cross their wands over him, and the 
Scene Supporters shall cross their wands over the candidate 
during the same time.] 

VICE GRAND'S CHARGE. 

Vice Grand. Stranger, having entered within these 
walls, you are never to make known the secrets of this 
Order, or make any discovery to any person or persons, 
upon any pretence or for any purpose. Will you comply 
with these rules ? 

Candidate answers. 



25 

Restore him to light and liberty. 

[Before the (biind) is removed, the Lodge-room must be 
made light again.] 

Stranger, it is my duty to administer to you a solemn 
and binding obligation — one which we have all taken, 
but which will not conflict with any of those exalted 
duties you owe to your God, your country, your family, 
or yourself. With this assurance, are you willing to 
take such an obligation ? 

Candidate answers. 

Place your right haad on your left breast, and repeat 
after me the following : 

[Before the obligation is administered to the candidate, the 
Vice Grand calls the Lodge up.] 



OBLIGATION. 



I, , in the presence of the brothers of 

the Order now assembled, do solemnly promise that I 
will never communicate to any one, unless directed to 
do so by a legal Lodge, the signs, tokens, or grips, the 
term, traveling, or other passwords belonging to the 
Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Nor will I expose 
or lend any of the books or papers relating to the 
records or secret work of the Order to any person or 
persons, except to one specially authorized to receive 
them. That I will never reveal any private business 
which may be transacted in my presence in this or any 
other Lodge. I also promise, that I will abide by the 
laws, rules, and regulations of this Lodge, of the Grand 
Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of 

, or any other Grand or working 

Lodge to which I may be attached. 



26 

I further promise, that I will never wrong a Subor- 
dinate or Grand Lodge to the value of anything. Nor 
will I take part or share, directly or indirectly, in any 
illegal distribution of the funds or other property of the 
Lodge; but will, to the best of my ability, endeavor to 
prevent the same. Nor will I wrong a brother, or see 
him wronged, without apprising him of approaching 
danger, if in my power so to do. Should I be expelled 
or voluntarily leave the Order, I will consider this prom- 
ise as binding out of it as in it. To the faithful per- 
formance of all which, I pledge my sacred honor. 

[The members are seated by the Vice Grand.] 

Vice Or and. Stranger, you have now entered into a 
society that is far more important than you may at first 
imagine. It conforms to law, religion, and sound mo- 
rality, and does not permit anything contrary to the 
allegiance we owe to our country, or the duty we owe to 
ourselves. Let good conduct procure you the esteem of 
your family and friends ; let strict caution guard you 
against making any improper discoveries to the unin- 
formed ; so that, by your example, you may convince 
the world that good faith and virtue are the peculiar 
characteristics of a true Odd Fellow ; for, according to 
our laws, we can be Odd Fellows only while we act like 
honest men. 

I will now recommend you to the Noble Grand, who 
will further instruct you; and I hope your deportment 
will be such, after your initiation, as to give us no cause 
to regret that we have accepted you as a brother. Con- 
ductor, proceed with our friend to the principal chair, 
there to be introduced to the Noble Grand. 

[The members are called to their feet by the Vice Grand, 
and the candidate, in charge of the Scene Supporters, and pre- 
ceded by the Conductor, is ltd around the room, during which 
time the Ode is sung. Appropriate music is allowable during 
an initiation.] 






27 

ODE. 

Stranger (s), you've naught to fear, 
For honor's court is here — 

Love, peace, and joy ; 
Here in good faith we meet, 
Here friends and brothers greet, 
And in communion sweet 

The hours employ. 

Stranger (s), amidst a band 
Of brothers here you stand, 

Firm, tried, and true ; 
Here Friendship's power is shown, 
Here Love and Truth are known, 
And here, before their throne, 

We welcome you. 

[Upon the conclusion of the Ode, the Condctor will pass up 
the centre of the room, and present the candidate in front of 
the principal chair.] 

Conductor. Brother Right Supporter, is the Noble 
Grand engaged? 

Eight Supporter. He is, my brother. 

Conductor. Business 8f importance demands his atten- 
tion. A stranger desires to be introduced to him. 

Right Supporter. Then he may be disturbed. 

[Passing behind the curtain or screen in front of the Noble 
Grand's chair.] 

Noble Grand ! 

Noble Grand. Well, my brother ? 

Eight Supporter. A stranger stands before you. 

Noble Grand. A stranger stands before me ? How 
gained that stranger admittance within these walls? 



28 

Eight Supporter. By the recommendation of worthy 
brothers, and the permission of the Vice Grand. 

Noble Grand. Has he taken upon himself that seri- 
ous, solemn, and binding obligation ? 

Eight Supporter. He has, Noble Grand. 

Noble Grand. Then let him be introduced to me. 

[The curtain or screen in front of the Noble Grand is raised 
or removed. The Noble Grand arises and gives one blow of 
the gavel, which seats the Lodge. The officers quietly disrobe 
and the members uncover.] 

Conductor. Noble Grand, by direction of the Vice 
Grand, I present to you a stranger for instruction in the 
mysteries of our Order. 

NOBLE GRAND'S CHARGE. 

[The Supporters of the Noble Grand shall cross their wands 
over that officer when the candidate is in front of him, and 
until the instruction in the secret work is commenced, when 
they shall be seated.] 

Noble Grand. My friend, I welcome you among the 
fraternity of Odd Fellows, with whose customs, I trust, 
you will soon become better acquainted. Under our 
disguise, I have no doubt you •took us for odd fellows 
indeed. Learn from this that men are not always to be 
taken for what they appear. Some may have a rough, 
unseemly exterior, but a good, true heart within ; while 
others, possessing a captivating person and manners, 
may be destitute of all genuine principle. I hope you 
will pardon us the innocent deception, and make a 
proper application of the moral it is designed to convey. 

We will now proceed to instruct you in the mysteries 
of the Initiatory Degree of this Order. They are, 

First, the Entersign, 

Second, the Countersign, 

Third, the Password of the Initiatory Degree, 

Fourth, the Password of the current term, which.is 



29 

changed each term, and will be given you privately in 
the course of the evening by the Noble Grand, who 
alone is authorized to communicate it, or cause it to be 
communicated to members. 
Fifth, the Grip. 

[Here instruct in the Entersign, the Countersign, and its 
Signification, the P. W. of the Initiatory Degree, and the Grip.] 




SECRET WORK 

OF THE 

INITIATORY DEGREE 



The " Entersign " consists of one rap, or one pull of the 
bell if there be one at the outer door, and three raps at the 
inner door. 

The " Countersign " has three motions : 1st, with the thumb 
of the right hand in the palm thereof, place the four fingers 
perpendicularly across the mouth, the back of the hand out- 
ward; 2d, close the last three fingers upon the thumb in the 
palm of the hand, the index or forefinger being extended, carry 
it to the outer corner of the right eye, the back of the hand be- 
ing outward, forming a right angle with the nose ; 3d, drop the 
hand to the ground, open, and palm outward, the thumb to be 
nearly parallel with the fingers, and the hand about six inches 
from the body. 

Explanation of the Countersign. The first motion 
signifies Silence, and reminds that we are bound to keep 
inviolate the secrets of the Order. The second motion 
signifies Omniscience, and reminds us that the all-seeing 
eye of God is continually watching over our actions. The 
third motion signifies Fraternity, and reminds us that the 
hand of an Odd Fellow should always be open to a brother. 

The Password is " Fides," to be lettered at all times when 
used for working purposes, working into a Lodge, or in exam- 
ination prior to opening. In communicating this word either to 
the Inside Guardian or to the Warden the brother must give the 
letters F i, and, if required by the Inside Guardian or Warden, 
he must give the remainder of the word— d-e-s, lettered as be- 
fore. The Inside Guardian and Warden must be satisfied. 

Grip, with the first two fingers of the right hand seize and 
link with the first two fingers of the brother's right hand, with 
the thumb (your own) touch each of the two fingers (your 
own), and thus forming the link. 

No shaking hands in making the grip. 

This Grip has never been broken by any good Odd 
Fellow, and we hope and trust that it never will be by you. 



31 

[The Noble Grand shall then say :] 

In all Lodges there is an outer and an inner door, and be- 
tween them what is termed an ante-room. At the outer door 
there is stationed an officer called the Outside Guardian, and at 
the inner door an officer called the Inside Guardian. 

Wishing to visit a Lodge which is open in the Initiatory 
Degree, you will announce your presence at the outer door by 

giving or of the .... if there be one; but 

any alarm will be attended to. 

The Outside Guardian will open the wicket and require from 
you the password of the current term, which must be given in 
full. If given correctly you will be admitted to the ante-room. 
You will then clothe yourself in the regalia appropriate to your 
rank and station in the Lodge, which for the present will be a 
plain white collar. Advance to the inner door and give 

The Inside Guardian will announce to the proper officer 
(either the Noble Grand or the Vice Grand of the Lodge, as the 
rules of the Lodge shall have prescribed ) that there is an alarm 
at the door. The Inside Guardian is directed by such officer to 
inquire the cause, whereupon the Inside Guardian will open the 
wicket and obtain from you your name, rank, and the number 
of the Lodge to which you belong. 

The Inside Guardian will close the wicket and inform the 
proper officer, who, if he is satisfied, will direct the Inside 
Guardian to admit you, if correct. The Inside Guardian re- 
opens the wicket, and you must give him the password of the 
Initiatory Degree. If correct the Inside Guardian will admit 
you, when you will advance to the center of the room and ad- 
dress the Noble Grand with the countersign, who will acknowl- 
edge you as a brother by giving the same countersign. You 
will then turn and address the Vice Grand with the counter- 
sign, who will acknowledge you as a brother with the same 
countersign. You will then be seated. 

Wishing to leave the Lodge before it is closed, you will make 
the same countersign to the Noble Grand only, which will be 
answered by him. 

If you are visiting your own Lodge, when it is open in the 
Initiatory Degree, and are without either the password of the 
current term or the password of this degree, the proper officer 
of the Lodge (the Noble Grand), being so informed, asks the 
Secretary as to your standing in the Lodge. If the Secretary 
reports favorably directions will be given to admit you. But if 
the report is unfavorable you are so informed by the Outside 
Guardian, and you cannot be admitted. 



32 

Without these signs you cannot gain admittance into 
this or any other Lodge of the Independent Order of 
Odd Fellows. Be observant, therefore, that you may 
acquire thern, and be careful that you do not improperly 
reveal them. Remember, also, that you have given us 
your pledge of honor — a pledge which is the most bind- 
ing of any that can be given or received. We feel 
confident that you will keep it inviolate. You have 
been admitted by certain forms of initiation, in which 
there is deep significance. You were (blindfolded) to 
represent to you the darkness and doubt through which 
man gropes his way to a knowledge of himself, his duty, 
and his destiny; a darkness not only of reason, but of 
the moral nature ; and you were bound with chains, to 
illustrate that slavery of soul to sense, that subjection 
to things outward and perishable, into which man is 
brought by his own passions. You were then led to a 
scene where an emblem of mortality was exhibited to rep- 
resent to you the end of this servitude ; to remind you 
of the insignificant and perishable nature of all those 
outward objects that so often excite men's passionate 
ambition. After this representation, intended to reach 
your conscience and touch your heart, you have been 
restored to light and liberty. One of these acts is em- 
blematical of that liberty which the virtuous enjoy when 
conscious of being disenthralled from sensuality and 
passion; the other is emblematical of the light of that 
Truth which reveals to us Love as the grand remedy for 
all social evils— as it is, indeed, the foundation of all 
good toward God or man. In this light we trust you 
will ever walk ; this liberty we hope you will ever 
maintain. It will be our duty — it is one of the great 
ends of our institution — to aid you in so doing. We 
claim the privilege, therefore, of watching over your 
conduct, not only in the Lodge-room, but in your inter- 
course with the world at large. > 

The Conductor will introduce the candidate to the 
Acting Past Grand. 



33 

[The Noble Grand will disrobe on concluding bis charge.] 

Conductor. Worthy Past Grand, by direction of the 
Noble Grand, I present to you this candidate for further 
instruction. 

PAST GRAND'S CHARGE. 

My Friend, — You are now initiated into, and made 
acquainted with the organization and work of a Lodge 
of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and are rec- 
ognized as a member. 

The institution of Odd Fellowship is progressive in 
its character. You have passed its threshold, and, after 
a reasonable probation, may advance step by step, through 
all its gradations, until you shall have fully attained 
a knowledge of its intrinsic excellences — its adaptation 
for the promotion of good-will among men, and its 
fitness as a minister to the trials and adversities which 
are inseparable from human life. 

We have at this time a few general lessons to incul- 
cate, which, in addition to those you have received in your 
progress to this chair, will serve to give you proper views 
as to the character and true objects of Odd Fellowship. 

Odd Fellowship is founded upon that eternal prin- 
ciple which, recognizing man as a constituent of one 
universal brotherhood, teaches him that, as he came 
from the hands of a common parent, he is bound to 
cherish and to protect his fellow-man. It thus presents a 
broad platform, upon which mankind may unite in offices 
of human benefaction. Under its comprehensive influ- 
ences, all the nations of the earth may concentrate their 
energies for the good of the common race. Based upon 
certain truths, which are alike axioms among all na- 
tions, tongues, and creeds, its sacred tolerance presents 
a nucleus which, by its gentle influence, gathers within 
its orbit antagonist natures, controls the elements of 
discord, stills the storm and soothes the spirit of passion, 
and directs in harmony man's united efforts to fraternize 
the world. 



e 



34 

This is the great first principle of our fellowship, which 
we denominate Fraternity — a universal fraternity in the 
family of man. Our forefathers have wisely made this 
principle the corner-stone of Odd Fellowship. Upon its 
solid basis the whole superstructure has securely rested, 
and, as we believe, is destined immovably to repose until 
time shall be no more. From this princible we learn to 
regard the Geeat Author of our existence as our 
Father, " in whom alone we live, and move, and have 
our being ; " to recognize each other as alike the offspring 
of the same parent — as the masterpiece of His handi- 
work ; and designed, as such, to reflect, in our nature 
and relations, the image of Him after whose likeness 
man was formed. We are, therefore, brothers, and in 
all our intercourse we illustrate the truthfulness of this 
profession, by reciprocal relief and kindly offices to on 
another in the day of trial. 

With the divisions and classifications of human society 
our Order holds no fellowship. While it inculcates a 
veneration for religion, and subordination to civil gov- 
ernment and its laws, it studiously avoids all affinity 
with systems of faith or sects, whether religious or polit- 
ical. In becoming an Odd Fellow, no sacrifice of your 
opinions, no change of your relations to the State, no 
loosening of the obligations which, as a good citizen, you 
owe to the laws and institutions under which you live, 
is required. On the contrary, learn now and forever, 
that you cannot become an Odd Fellow in spirit and 
truth, unless you are grateful to your Creator, faith- 
ful to your country, and fraternal to your ft llow-man. 
Within the walls of a Lodge-room we meet for mutual 
counsel, the relief of distress, and the elevation of 
human character. With pure hearts and clean hands 
must we come to such offices. Strife and discord, party 
and sect, which create heart-burnings and divisions 
among men, are banished by our laws without this 
council; and if perchance some thoughtless brother 
should so far wander from this injunction as to permit 



35 

evil influences to control his actions, he must atone to 
the offended law. We war against vice in all its forms ; 
Friendship toward man prompts the contest — the gentle 
influences of Love supply the weapons — Truth conse- 
crates the effort and leads to victory. 

Such, my friend, are among the first principles of 
Odd Fellowship : its objects you will more clearly un- 
derstand as you advance in the Order. 

If you have become initiated into this institution from 
the influence of a too common error, namely : that Odd ' 
Fellowship is a mere beneficial society, having for its 
single purpose the relief of its members in the struggles 
incident to human life — if you have united yourself 
with this great brotherhood from the promptings of idle 
curiosity, be at once undeceived. Mutual relief, it is 
true, is a leading office in our affiliation. "To visit the 
sick, relieve the distressed, to bury the dead, and edu- 
cate the orphan," is the command of our laws, and an 
imperative duty which Odd Fellowship enjoins; but 
these, although its frequent and almost daily ministra- 
tions, are but a tithe of the intrinsic virtues of our 
beloved Order. We seek to improve and elevate the 
character of man ; to imbue him with proper concep- 
tions of his capabilities for good ; to enlighten his mind ; 
to enlarge the sphere of his affections ; in a word, our 
aim is to lead man to the cultivation of the true, fra- 
ternal relation designed by the Great Author of his 
being. 

Brother, for by that endearing name you are now 
privileged to be hailed, I greet you as an initiated Odd 
Fellow of the Independent Order, and welcome jou as a 
member of Lodge, No. — , under the jurisdic- 
tion of the Grand Lodge of . May you ever 

be animated by the pure principles of Odd Fellowship, 
and may your life and conduct afford no reproach to the 
new character which you have this night voluntarily 
assumed. 



36 

Noble Grand. [Addressing the Conductor.] Conduct 
the brother to the Secretary, where he will sign the 
Constitution. 

[After this the candidate is led by the Conductor to the left 
side of the Noble Grand's chair, and is by him privately in- 
structed in the password of the term.] 

[He is then given in charge of the Warden, with whom he 
will retire to the ante-room, without giving the countersign, 
and be clothed with a white collar, the proper regalia of an 
initiatory member.] 

[The Warden will then enter and await the candidate, who 
will work his way in, by giving the alarm and the password of 
the Initiatory Degree.] 

[On arriving at the centre of the room he will, with the 
Warden, address the Noble Grand with the countersign, who 
will answer with the same sign ; turning to the Vice Grand, he 
will address him with the countersign, who will also answer 
with the same sign.] 



[The Warden will then lead him to the chair of the NobL 
Grand, who will greet him as a brother.] 



Noble Grand. Brother, I congratulate you upon hav- 
ing worked your way into a Lodge of our Order. I will 
now proceed to give you further instructions. 

[Instructs in the Sign of Distress, its Answer, and the Words 
that accompany it.] 

[The Sign of Eecognition, its Answer, and the Words that 
accompany it.] 

CONTINUATION OF THE SECRET WORK OF 
THE INITIATORY DEGREE. 



: 



The Sign of Distress. — Place the open right hand, palm 
downwards, on the top of the head, raise the hand upwards 
about nine inches, drop the hand to the head; this do three 
times, the hand after being placed on the head is to be raised 
and replaced on the head three times, then drop the hand to 
the side. * 



37 

Answer. — Extend the hands at arm's length off from the 
sides and at right angles to the body, palms outward, pause a 
moment and drop the hands to the side ; this is not repeated. 

Explanation : The Sign of Distress gives information to a 
brother at a distance that a brother [this word is constantly in 
dispute, some contending it should be member. — Pub.] of the 
Order is in want of assistance. The answer is given by a 
brother who shall observe and recognize the sign, and denotes 
a readiness to give the requisite assistance. When this sign 
cannot be observed the brother in distress may use the words, 
" Give ear, O ye Heavens," which must be pronounced in 
full, and not the initials thereof. 

The Sign of Eecogniton. — 1st. When a brother shall de- 
sire to be recognized as an Odd Fellow by a member of the 
Order he shall grasp with his right hand the lapel of his coat, 
the hand being placed over the right nipple, the thumb extended 
upwards. Secondly, an Odd Fellow observing this sign shall 
recognize and answer the same by taking hold of the right lapel 
of his coat with his left hand, the same being also placed over 
the right nipple, thumb concealed beneath the coat. Thirdly, 
when the brother who makes the sign shall observe the 
answer he shall advance toward the person making such 
answer and extend to him his right hand, which the person 
making the answer, if he be an Odd Fellow, shall accept and 
shake with his right hand, and at the same time shall ask, 
"Are you looking for me? "when the other shall respond, " For 
you." 

If either of the brothers shall be at the time without a coat, 
he shall place his hand on his person in the same position, the 
challenging brother with fingers turned under, and the brother 
answering with his thumb concealed in the palm of his hand. 

[The use of the gavel, stating that one blow (giving it) calls 
the Lodge to order, or seats it when standing ; that three blows 
(giving them) calls up the Lodge.] 

[The candidate is made to face the Vice Grand.] 

Noble Grand. Officers and Brothers, I now introduce 

to you Brother , and commend him to your 

friendship and protection. 

[Declares a recess here for introducing the candidate.] 



FLOOR WORK 



OF THE 



INITIATORY DEGREE. 



BEAUTIFIED AND IMPROVED. 

[As now in use in Several States.] 






[Note. — This beautified and improved Floor Work is given 
as nearly perfect and plain as it is possible to do in print. It 
remains with the officers of the Lodge who give the Initiatory 
Degree to present it to the Lodge, and especially to the candi- 
date himself, in as dignified a manner as possible. Particular 
attention is called to the fact that there are many little hidden 
points (which it i3 impossible to fully explain) which the vari- 
ous officers can work up to a point that is indeed " beautiful ; " 
so we say, study on them well — let your officers meet and practice 
upon them, when you will fully realize what a magnificent 
spectacle this is when properly 'produced. It will cause a new 
life to the Lodge, and those who have been members for years 
will be surprised beyond measure. Try it. Some may say 
that it is not in accordance with the Ritual, it is an extra 
touch, etc., etc. In answer to the few questions which arise we 
will say : It is in accord with the Ritual, and in no way 
swerves from it — not in the least. It is the bringing out of 
what lies hidden and unexplained in the Ritual, and is pre- 
cisely what was intended by the framers of that work. It is 
beautifying it, and will introduce a desire on the part of the 
officers to do the work as nearly perfect as they can, thus caus- 
ing them to take and feel an interest in their Lodge which they 
had not before felt. — Publishers.] 

When all is in readiness, viz., the business of the 
Lodge has been dispatched up to that point where the 
Initiation is in order, and the Lodge is still in the Third 
Degree (and the candidate is known to be in waiting), 
then 

1st. Let the presiding N. G. call the Lodge to order. 



FLOOR WORK. 39 

2d. The N. G. will then direct all the officers to vacate 
their respective chairs, for use by the " Officers of Initia- 
tion " (excepting only the Recording and Permanent 
Secretary and Treasurer, who will remain in theii official 
chairs)— even though it be the same officers who are to 
conduct the Initiation. 

3d. The N. G. will then invite the N. G. who is to 
conduct the Initiation to occupy the chair of the N. G. 

4th. The N. G. on taking possession of the gavel will 
not then seat himself, but remain standing in front of 
his chair, and will 

5th. Call the Lodge to order. 

6th. Will say : The Officers of Initiation will take 
their respective places. [" By-places" is meant ; will each 
walk up to, face about, and remain standing in front of 
their respective chairs, the N. G. still standing 
during this part. It is to be remembered that in 
this the other members will take no part whatever, but 
will quietly remain in their seats.] 

7th. The N. G will give one rap of the gavel, and at 
its sound let all the officers seat themselves promptly and 
all together. 

8th. The Warden is then instructed to retire and as- 
certain if there are any candidates in waiting (and in 
regular form). 

9th. The Warden now having reported, the N. G. 
will close the Lodge in the Third, and open in the In- 
itiatory Degree. 

10th. The N. G. here appoints some Past Grand to 
act as Outside Conductor (and not the sitting Past 
Grand — he will have his own duties to attend to, anJ 
should not be disturbed). 

11th. The Warden is now supposed to have reported, 
after which the N. G, will instruct the Outside Conduc- 
tor as follows (who, on being thus spoken to, will in- 
stantly rise and receive his charge) : 

"The Outside Conductor will retire to the ante-room, 
propound the usual questions, as laid down in the 



40 FLOOR WORK. 

Charge Book, to the candidate, and if satisfactorily an- 
swered administer the primary obligation." 

The O. C. will take his leave of the room in due form. 

While the O. C. is out the N. G. will designate some 
Past Grand to occupy the chair of the N. G. during the 
absence of the Officers of Initiation. The Vice Grand 
will do likewise for his chair. 

12th. When the O. C. has reported the N. G. will 
give two (2) sharp raps of the gavel, which will call to 
their feet the " Officers of Initiation" only (the other 
members retaining their seats), the N. G. rising in 
his seat as he raps, thus allowing all the officers to rise 
together. [Practice on this ; you will find it worth your 
while.] For an instant only all will remain still, the N. 
G. making the first move, the Vice Grand instantly fol- 
lowing, down from their stations towards the center of 
the room. As the N. G. passes down the Warden and 
Conductor will follow in his rear in double column from 
their chairs, and about four (4) feet in rear of N. G. 
As the Vice Grand leaves his station the two Scene Sup- 
porters will follow in same manner. The Eight and Left 
Supporters to the N. G. will also fall into line behind 
the Warden and Conductor, respectively, while the Eight 
and Left Supporters to the Vice Grand do likewise be- 
hind the two Scene Supporters (all in double column). 
Immediately behind these the six (6) Pall Bearers will 
fall into line (double), and all moving at a steady and 
uniform gait, with promptness and well measured time. 
[A slow march on the organ here gives a fine effect, and 
aids the officers to be in perfect time.] The sitting (or 
acting) Past Grand, having but a few steps to gain his 
position in the first line, will measure his time to be at 
his post in harmony, and before the Warden can arrive 
there. This will prevent clashing, such as walking 
around each other, but all must be in harmony, be pre- 
cise, and follow to their respective stations in the center 
of the floor, as shown in the diagram. 

The first division or line should form on the front edge 



FLOOR WORK. 41 

of mat, the rear line on back edge of mat ; this will 
give ample room for turning. All will fall into line in 
the following positions : 



1st Div. 


8 


6 


4 


2 1 


3 


5 


7 


9 


2d Div. 


8 


6 


4 


2 


1 


3 


5 


7 



All even numbers on one side of the room, the odd 
on the reverse. 

[You will note that no one will be standing behind 
the N. G.; the reason will show itself in the march to 
follow.] 

This is indeed a beautiful piece of work when nicely 
performed. One who has never witnessed it cannot re- 
alize how greatly this part of the work will add to the 
the effectiveness of the members. 

At a given signal from the N. G. all will salute the 
temporary or acting N. G. (who has been previously ap- 
pointed, and will take his seat as such the moment it is 
vacated by the N. G.) Both divisions will right-about 
face together. 

[N. B. — Do not make the blunder of saluting the V. 
G. while retiring in the "Initiatory" Degree, as this has 
been discarded. -See Sovereign Grand Lodge proceedings.] 

The N. G. will first step from his position in line 
(through the place left vacant in rear line), moving 
slowly towards and through the inside door (by music 
if possible). Let each follow in regular order as 
numbered in the diagram, the N. G. being No. 1, then 
No. 2 (the Past Grand), then in succession Nos. 3, 4, 5, 
6, 7, 8, and 9 of first line, all moving toward the center 
and passing down through the opening in rear line, fol- 
lowing the N. G. in single file. When No. 9 of first line 
has passed through let No. 1 of second or rear line fall 
in immediately behind, and so on following Nos. 2, 3, 4, 
5, 6, 7, and 8. By this time all are moving. The entire 
procession will pass completely from the room, the Inside 
Guardian closing the door behind them. 



42 FLOOR WORK. 

13th. The officers will then clothe themselves in their 
Initiatory Regalia in the ante-room. 

14th. During their absence hoodwinks will be passed 
around to the members. [The candidate must not wife 
ness the dressing in the ante-room.] 

15th. When all is ready, the officers being fully 
clothed in their respective regalias, they must form in 
single line (in ante-room), in the same position as when 
they retired, the N. G. being against the door, in the 
following order : 

PROCESSION OF OFFICERS 



Into the Lodge-Room on Taking the Chairs 
for Initiation. 



FIRST DIVISION. 

1— N. G. 
2— A. P. G. 
3— V. G. 
4 — Warden. 
5— Con. 
6— R. S. N. G. 
7— L. S. N. G. 
8-L. S. V. G. 
9— R S. V. G. 

SECOND division. 
1-R. 8. S. 
2— L. S. S. 
8— P. B. 
4—P. B. 
5— P. B. 
6— P. B. 
7— P. B. 
8--P. B. 



FLOOR WORK. 43 

The officers will enter the Lodge-room in single file, in 
the above order. On reaching the center of the room 
they will take position on the floor as follows : 

ist Div. 211212122 

2d Div. 2 6 4 2 13 5 7 

16th. The N. G. will do the announcing for all. On 
giving the alarm at the inner door and the wicket being 
opened, the Inside Guardian will say in a loud voice, 
" Who comes there?" the N. G. will immediately reply 
" The Officers of Initiation." The Inside Guardian will 
announce the same to the presiding officer who will direct 
the Inside Guardian to " admit them." 

17th. The Inside Guardian will open wide the door, 
and as the N. G. (leading) crosses the threshold to the 
Lodge-room the presiding officer will call up the Lodge 
(three raps) which will remain standing until they are 
seated by the N. G. The music will immediately start 
(a march) and will continue until all the officers are in 
their positions in the centre of the room, as per the 
diagram, 

18 th. At a signal from the N. G. all will salute the 
N. G. chair, then all turn together promptly to the Vice 
Grand, saluting that officer; will again turn clear 
around, and as the N. G. steps forth to proceed to his 
chair all will turn and face each other and pass to their 
respective chairs in the same form as when first taking 
their places in the room, viz: in double columns, ex- 
cepting the N. G., Vice Grand, and Past Grand, those 
in the first line finishing ; or passing from their posi- 
tions first, followed by the second line in order named 
before. 

19th. The officers on gaining their chairs will face 
about and remain standing in front of them. 

20th. When all are in such position the N. G. will 
seat the Lodge and officers in regular form — i. e. one 
rap. 



44 ^LOOR WORK. 

21st. The N. G. will then send the Outside Con- 
ductor out to the ante-room instructing him to " prepare 
and introduce the candidate, " retiring in form. 

22nd. During the absence of the O. C. the N. G. 
will instruct the Vice Grand to " take charge of the 
Lodge-room. " 

The room will be darkened as is usual. 

23rd. As the O. C. gives the regular alarm the Con- 
ductor will pass quietly but quickly from his seat, meet 
and receive the candidate from the O. C. at the thresh- 
old of the door — music starting as the door opens. The 
Conductor will escort the candidate to the usual place, i. 
e. about four feet in front of the Scene Supporters ; he 
will then march about six feet in front of the candidate 
aud facing him deliver his (the Conductor's) charge. 
The Scene Supporters will deliver their first charges and 
when the Conductor has finished again by saying " Lead 
on our friend " the C. will march slowly three-quarters 
of the way around the room followed only by the Out- 
side Conductor and candidate who has stepped up to 
and taken the candidate in charge. © 

- The two Scene Supporters quietly passing to the cor- 
ner of the room where the Pall Bearers are forming into 
line with the Scene and take their places in said line as 
below described. 

24th. The Conductor during this short march will 
deliver his address as he walks, i. e., " man in dark- 
ness/' etc., timing his words that he may reach the Past 
Grand as he says the word u greatness ;*' he will walk at 
right angles to the centre of the room facing the Past 
Grand — the Outside Conductor in following will stop 
short at the Past Grand's chair and face the candidate 
about to the Conductor, who will then say, " Be serious 
for our lesson is as melancholy as it is truthful." 

25th. The Conductor will then pass toward the angle 
of the door, the candidate remaining in position at the 
P. G. chair with the Outside Conductor behind him — 
candidate still blindfolded. 



1?L00R WORK. 



45 



26th. As the Conductor reaches the angle of the room 
where the door is, the Scene procession being all in 
readiness, it will fall in behind the Conductor in the fol- 
lowing order : Conductor, the 2 Scene Supporters with 
torches lighting the way, Scene carried by 4 brothers, 
followed by the remaining 2 brothers or Pall Bearers. 
As the procession starts the O. C. will raise the blind of 
the candidate (the E. S. to N. G. slowly tolling the 
gong). The procession will pass around the room, passing 
by and in front of candidate. (Music, a dirge.) As the 
last of them pass, the O. C.will put down the hoodwink, 
and taking the candidate in charge, fall into line immedi- 
ately behind the procession, which will continue on around 
the room to the N. G's. chair, when they will pass down 
the center of the room to the middle of the floor, the Scene 
stopping at the mat and lengthwise with the room. The 
entire procession will form itself in the following positions 
around the Scene : 

6 8 




No. 1 being No. 3 Pall Bearer ; No. 2 is No. 4 P. B.; 
No. 3 is No 5 P. B.; No. 4 is No. 6 P. B.; No. 5 is 
No. 8. P. B.; No. 6 is No. 7 P. B.; No. 7, the Conduc- 
tor; No. 8, Right Scene Supporter; No. 9, Left Scene 
Supporter; No. 10, the candidate; and No. 11, the 
Outside Conductor. 



46 tfLOOR WORK. 

This is a most beautiful position, and a little practice 
will produce impressive effects. 

27th. The Conductor will give the signal when all is 
in readiness, and No. 11 will then raise the blind of the 
candidate and give his charge in a forcible and ex- 
pressive manner. As he concludes the Scene Supporters 
will pass their torches to the extra Pall Bearers at their 
sides before commencing their charge. Their hands being 
free, they will have an opportunity to add impressiveness 
to their remarks. At the last word of the L. S. S. th 
0. G. (No. 11) will again blind the candidate, and as the 
Conductor is making his last remarks, to wit, " you may 
think it strange, " etc., No. 11 will half turn the candi- 
date to the right (facing N. G.) and step back a pace. 
The L. S. S. will advance by the corner and take the 
candidate by the right arm and advance. As they come 
opposite the K. S. S. he will take the left arm of candi- 
date ; then continue to the Conductor's chair, turn to 
the left, and follow the Conductor, who by this time has 
advanced to the Warden's chair, going around the room 
to the left. This procession consists only of the Con- 
ductor (in the lead) followed by the two S. S. with 
candidate. This, you notice, clears the floor, and enables 
the Pall Bearers to remove the Scene. The procession 
will continue to the Vice Grand's chair, coming up the 
center of the room to the mat, the Conductor little to 
the left and in front of the B. S. S. The Outside Con- 
ductor will remove the blind. The Conductor will intro- 
duce the candidate to the Warden. When concluded, 
the candidate will again be blindfolded and the 
same procession will march to the left around the 
room to the N. G's. chair, thence down the center of 
the room to the Vice Grand. The S. S. will step to 
their chairs, take their staffs of office, step back to their 
places beside the candidate, crossing the staffs over the 
head of candidate. The Conductor will now introduce 
the candidate to the Vice Grand, and the Outside Con- 
ductor (who has taken up his position behind the c mdi- 



2 



FLOOR WORK. 47 

date) will at the proper time take off the hoodwink. 
(At the conclusion of the V. G's. charge the room is of 
course fully light.) As the procession again starts (to 
the left) the "Initiation Ode" is sung, going completely 
around the room twice to the Vice Grand's chair, and up 
the center of the room to a point equally distant from 
mat and N. G's. chair. As the procession leaves the Vice 
Grand's chair the 2 Supporters to the N. G. will step out 
and take positions on the outer corner of their platform. 
The Conductor will address the R. S. to the N. G., who 
will " pass behind " the canopy ere addressing the N. G. 
28th. As the Conductor addresses the N. G. that 
officer will at once rise from the chair, but will not com- 
mence his charge until the Conductor, Warden, and 2 
Scene Supporters have passed from view of the candi- 
date to leave the room for disrobing. 

29 th. When the Conductor has concluded his intro- 
duction he will step up to and quietly assist the venerable 
Warden down the hall, followed by the 2 Scene Support- 
ers. The N. G. will then begin his charge. Estimated 
length of time to be consumed by the N. G. in the de 

livery of his charge 

— to, admitted to the ante-room 7 minutes. 

" No. of Lodge to which you belong... 8 " 

" You will then be seated 9 " 

" You can not be admitted 10 " 

" You will keep inviolate. 11 " 

" Mortality was represented 12 " 

" Reveals to us Love, etc 13 " 

" The Conductor will introduce the can- 
didate to the A. P. G., 13 min. and 50 sec. 
[Note. — The N. G. will instruct the Warden and 
and Conductor to illustrate both the Grip and Sign of 
Recognition at their proper times in the charges.] 

Estimated time for Past Grand's charge, 9J minutes. 



FIRST DEGREE. 



INSTRUCTIONS FOR DEGREE LODGES. 



Each State, District, or Territorial Grand Lodge (and Sub- 
ordinate Lodges where there is no Grand Lodge) shall cause 
the several degrees to be conferred on the members who are 
entitled to receive them in the following manner : 

In all cases where Subordinate Lodges do not themselves 
confer the degrees, the applicant for a degree shall produce 
to the appropriate Degree Lodge, or to the appropriate Degree 
Committee, or to the appropriate officer or body, by whatever 
other name designated, a certificate signed by the Noble Grand 
and Secretary of his Lodge, and attested by its seal, stating 
that he has duly applied for such degree, and has been author- 
ized by a ballot of the brethren of his Lodge to receive it. 
Whereupon the degree shall be conferred upon him agreeably 
to the forms herein prescribed. 

In a regularly constituted Degree Lodge, the titles of the 
officers shall be Degree Master (who occupies the principal 
chair), Deputy Degree Master (who occupies the chair of the 
Vice Grand), First, Second, Third, and Fourth Assistant De- 
gree Masters, whose stations are to the right and left of the 
Degree Master and the Deputy Degree Marter respectively ; 
Past Grand, Warden, Conductor, Secretary, Treasurer, Out- 
side Guardian, and Inside Guardian, whose positions are the 
same as in the Subordinate Lodge. 

Where the title of Noble Grand or Vice Grand is used in a 
Subordinate Lodge , that of Degree Master or Deputy Degree 
Master is to be substituted in a Degree Lodge. 

A Degree Lodge shall also have such other officers as the 
degrees may require. 

In all other respects a Degree Lodge may do anything which 
a Subordinate Lodge may do when working in the degrees, for 
the purpose of conferring them in a proper manner. 

No officer or member can enter or leave a Degree Lodge, 
when the Lodge is open and working as such, without address- 
ing the presiding officer, except as provided for in the written 
work, and when the officers elect are brought into the Lodge 
to be installed. 



FIRST DEGREE. 49 

OPENING FOR REGULARLY CHARTERED 
DEGREE LODGES. 



[At the tine appointed for opening a Degree Lodge in the 
degrees, the proper officer shall take the chair, and, after call- 
ing to order, with one rap, will proceed to open the Lodge as 
follows :] 

[A Degree Lodge cannot be considered legally opened, unless 
the following form is used :] 

Degree Master. Officers and Brothers, we are about 
to open the Lodge in the Third Degree for the transac- 
tion of business. If any one present is not qualified to 
sit with us in this degree, he will please retire. 

Degree Master. The Inside Guardian will close the 
door, and the brethren will please clothe themselves in 
appropriate regalia. No one will be admitted during 
the opening ceremony 

Inside Guardian Degree Master, the door is secured. 

Degree Master. Warden, examine the brothers in the 
Lodge-room in the password of the Third Degree, and 
in the password of the current term. 

[It is not required of the Warden, or either of the Guardi- 
ans, to respond to brothers by giving any portion of the pass- 
words.] 

Warden. Degree Master, I have examined the broth- 
ers, and find them all correct and duly qualified to sit 
with us in this degree. 

Degree Master. Deputy Degree Master, what is your 
duty in the Lodge ? 

Deputy Degree Master To assist you, according to my 
office, in any work which may lawfully come before the 
Lodge, and to aid you in preserving order. 

Degree Master Secretary, what is your duty? 



50 FIRST DEGREE. 

Secretary. To keep accurate minutes of the proceedings 
of this Lodge, to receive all moneys due the Lo$ge, and 
to pay the same to the Treasurer. 

Degree Master. [Rising. ,] Officers and Brothers, we 
have met for the purpose of transacting business in the 
degrees, in which I trust I shall receive your fraternal 
assistance and cordial co-operation. The interest of the 
Degree Lodge depends greatly upon the prompt attend- 
ance, strict attention, and gentlemanly deportment of 
the members. It is your duty to remain until the work 
for which we have assembled shall have been completed, 
and to aid me with your presence and support. It is my 
duty to preserve order, and to see that our work conforms 
to the laws and regulations of the Sovereign Grand Lodge 
of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; but I feel 
confident that I shall not be under the necessity of exer- 
cising any restraining authority on the present occasion. 
Brothers [giving three raps'], rise and advance the sign of 
the Third Degree. Warden, declare the Lodge opened. 

Warden. By direction of the Degree Master I declare 
this Lodge duly opened in the Third Degree, for the 
transaction of such business as may be lawfully brought 
before it. 

Degree Master. Officers and Brothers, so be it. 

The Brothers respond : So be it. 

[Members to be seated.] 

[When it is necessary to close the Degree Lodge in any of 
the degrees, with the intention of opening in another degree, it 
shall be done as follows.] 

Degree Master. Brothers [calling the Lodge up~\> we 

are about to close the Lodge in the Degree, to 

be opened in the Degree, for the purpose of con- 
ferring the same. 



FIRST DEGREE. 51 

Degree Master. Warden, declare the Lodge closed 
accordingly. 

Warden. By direction of the Degree Master I declare 

the Lodge closed in the Degree to open in the 

Degree. 

Degree Master. Officers and Brothers, so be it. 

The Brothers respond : So be it. 

[The members to be seated.] 

[Should it become necessary to open the Degree Lodge in 
any other Degree during the meeting it shall be done as fol- 
lows :] 

Degree Master. Brothers, we are about to open the 
Lodge in the Degree. The Warden will exam- 
ine in the password of the degree. 

Warden. Degree Master, I have examined the broth- 
ers and find them correct. 

Degree Master. The brethren will rise [giving three 

raps'] and advance the sign of the Degree. 

Warden, declare the Lodge open in this degree. 

Warden. By direction of the Degree Master I pro- 
claim this Lodge open in the Degree. 

Degree Master. Officers and Brothers, so be it. 

The Brothers respond : So be it. 

[Members to be seated.] 



CLOSING REGULARLY CHARTERED 
DEGREE LODGES. 



Degree Master. Brothers, having concluded our busi- 
ness for the evening, you will please rise [giving three 
raps'] while we proceed to close this Degree Lodge. We 



52 FIRST DEGREE. 

thank you for your presence, and invite you to attend at 
our future meetings. You will now advance the sign of 
the Third Degree. Warden, proclaim this Degree Lodge 
duly closed. 

Warden. By direction of the Degree Master I pro- 
claim this Degree Lodge duly closed. 

[Degree Master gives one rap.] 



FIRST DEGREE, OR THE DEGREE 
OF FRIENDSHIP. 



PART I. 

[In conferring this degree the following shall be observed :] 

[The Noble Grand will appoint an Outside Conductor and 
direct him to retire to the ante-room, receive and introduce the 
candidate without him.] 

[When the Outside Conductor retires he shall address the 
chair.] 

[The Outside Conductor will approach the inside door with 
the candidate and give the alarm.] 

Inside Guardian. Noble Grand, there is an alarm at 
the door. 

Noble Grand. Attend to the alarm. 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket.] Who comes 
there ? 

Outside Conductor. A brother who, having been ini- 
tiated, now seeks to obtain the mysteries of the First 
Degree of Odd Fellowship. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket. ] Noble Grand, 
a brother, having been initiated, now seeks to obtain the 
mysteries of the First Degree of Odd Fellowship. 

Noble Grand. Why does he seek to obtain these 
mysteries ? 



FIRST DEGREE. 53 

Inside Guardian [Opening the wicket'] Why does 
he seek to obtain these mysteries? 

Outside Conductor. Because he wishes to be more 
fraternal. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket. J Because he 
wishes to be more fraternal. 

Noble Grand. Admit him, then, in friendship, which is 
the bond of fraternity. 

[Being admitted, the Outside Conductor will proceed with 
the candidate to the chair of the Noble Grand and introduce 
him as follows :] 

Outside Conductor. Noble Grand, I present to you 
-, a worthy brother, who, having been duly 



elected, seeks to obtain the mysteries of this degree. 

Noble Grand. [Rising."] Brother, in presenting your- 
self for advancement in our Order, it becomes my duty 
to remind you of the importance of the step you propose 
to take, and to caution you against making engage- 
ments that you may be unwilling to fulfill ; or, for the 
gratification of idle curiosity, taking upon yourself obli- 
gations which may hereafter prove burdensome. It will 
be necessary before you receive this degree for you to 
take a solemn obligation, pledging yourself not to disclose 
any of its mysteries to persons whom you do not know 
to be lawfully in possession of them, and binding your- 
self to the performance of the duties prescribed in this 
degree, so far as it may be in your power to perform 
them. Have you duly considered the subject, and are 
you now prepared to advance? 

[If the candidate replies in the affirmative, the Noble Grand 
continues :] 

Then place yourself in the attitude in which you were 
initiated into this Order, and repeat after me : 

[Calls the Lodge up.] 



54 FIRST DEGREE. 

O. B. N. 

I, — , in the presence of the covenanted 

brothers of the Degree of Friendship here assembled, do 
solemnly promise that I will never improperly divulge 
the secrets of the degree about to be intrusted to my 
keeping ; and I hereby pledge myself to help and sup- 
port my afflicted and persecuted brother, and warn him 
of approaching danger, whether it be from his own im- 
prudence, or from the evil designs of others, or from 
some accidental cause. I will point out his advantage 
and interest, where they do not conflict with the rights 
of others, if it should be in my power so to do. I will 
protect his property, assist his family, defend his charac- 
ter, and save his life and limbs, should opportunity offer 
To the faithful performance of all which I pledge my 
sacred honor. 

[The Lodge to be seated.] 

Noble Grand. \To the candidate.] Are you willing 
to submit to the ordeal by which you may become a 
brother of this degree? 

Candidate answers. 

Noble Grand. \_To the Outside Conductor."] Let the 
brother be taken to the ante-room, that he may re-enter 
and take his next step in fraternity. 

[The Outside Conductor, without addressing the chair, will 
retire with the candidate to the ante-room.] 



PAET II. 

[The Outside Conductor will the candidate and 

conduct him to the inside door, where the Outside Conductor 
will give the alarm.] 

Inside Guardian. Noble Grand, there Is an alarm at 
the door. 

Noble Grand. Attend to the alarm. 






FIRST DEGREE. 55 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket'] Who comes 
here ? 

Outside Conductor. A brother who is ready to receive 
the mysteries of this degree. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the roicket.] Noble Grand, 
a brother is ready to receive the mysteries of this degree. 

Noble Grand. What is his name ? 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket. ] What is his 
name? 

Outside Conductor. David, the son of Jesse. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket.] David, the son 
of Jesse. 

Noble Grand. Why comes he here ? 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket.] Why comes he 
here? 

Outside Conductor. To visit Saul, King of Israel. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket.] To visit Saul, 
King of Israel. 

Noble Grand. Admit him to the presence of the King. 

[Calls up the Lodge,] 

[The Outside Conductor enters with the candidate, and con- 
ducts him to the middle of the room, facing the Noble Grand. 
After a pause he exclaims reverently:'] 

Outside Conductor. Hail to the King ! 

Noble Grand. [As King.] Welcome, son of Jesse ! 
Thou hast smitten mine enemies and brought me the 
spoils of victory. 

[The whole Lodge, standing, led by the Warden, cry out :] 

The Lodge. Saul has slain his thousands, and David 
his tens of thousands. 

Noble Grand. [As King,] This is treason to the King ! 
Ho ! my guards! I will smite him with the sword! 



56 FIRST DEGREE. 

[Here a sword or some heavy substance is thrown down by 
the side of the candidate.] 

[The Lodge is led by the Warden, crying out :] 

The Lodge. Fly !— Away ! — He will kill thee ! Away ! 
away! 

[The Outside Conductor hurries the candidate entirely 
around the Lodge-room ; then walking slowly, he is met near 
the Vice Grand's chair by the Inside Conductor, who repre- 
sents Jonathan.] 

Inside Conductor. [As Jonathan, laying his hand upon 
the shoulder of the candidate.] David, I am thy friend ; 
my father seeketh to kill thee ; now, therefore, take 
heed and abide here. I will go and stand by my father, 
and what I see, I will tell thee. Hide thyself by the 
stone Ezel; I will shoot three arrows on its side as 
though I shot at a mark. And will send a lad, saying, 
" Go, find the arrows." If I say to him, " Behold, the 
arrows are on this side of thee," then come thou, for 
there is peace to thee and no hurt ; but if I say to the 
lad, " Behold, the arrows are beyond thee," go thy way. 

[The Lodge to be seated.] 

[Jonathan goes away, and the Outside Conductor leads the 
candidate once entirely around the Lodge-room, then halts at 
the side of and near the middle of the room, where something 
representing the stone Ezel may be placed.] 

Outside Conductor. Let us hide by this rock. 

[Inside Conductor as Jonathan) stands on the opposite side 
of the Lodge-room.] 

Inside Conductor. [As Jonathan, after a pause, calls 
loudly.] Here, lad, find out the arrows that I shoot. 

[Jonathan here loudly twangs a bow several times, and then 
shoots three blunt arrows.] 

[The lad standing between David and Jonathan.] 

Eight Scene Supporter. [As lad, loudly.] Where are they? 

Inside Conductor Are not the arrows beyond thee? 
Make baste ! Speed ! Stay not ! 



FIRST DEGREE. 57 

[After a pause, in which the lad runs and picks up the 
arrows and returns.] 

Inside Conductor. Here, lad, take this bow and ar- 
rows ; go, carry them to the city. 

Right Scene Supporter. [As lad. Near the inside door 
of the Lodge-room ] I go, my noble prince. 

[After a lengthy pause, the Outside Conductor leads the can- 
didate around the room, and halts near the middle of the 
Lodge-room, where they are met by the Inside Conductor as 
Jonathan.] 

Inside Conductor. [As Jonathan. Laying his hand upon 
the shoulder of the candidate."] David, son of Jesse, be- 
hold my father would kill thee, and yet I love thee as 
my own soul. Let us swear the one to the other in 
friendship forever. 

[The Inside Conductor (as Jonathan) kneels down upon his 
right knee, and the Outside Conductor causes the candidate 
also to kneel in the same manner, with his face to the Inside 
Conductor, their left knees touching, and their right hands 
clasped.] 

[The Inside Conductor (representing Jonathan) and the 
Outside Conductor for the candidate, slowly, solemnly, and 
together utter the following :] 

Inside Conductor and Outside Conductor. The Lord be 
between me and thee, and between my seed and thy 
seed forever. 

[The candidate and the Inside Conductor continue kneeling, 
the Lodge is called up, and being led by the Chaplain or 
Warden, repeat this covenant slowly, as follows :] 

The Lodge. The Lord be between me and thee, and 
between my seed and thy seed forever. 

[The Inside Conductor and the candidate arise, and the 
Inside Conductor retires. The candidate is made to face the 
Vice Grand.] 

Vice Grand. Hail to the covenant of friendship ! 
[The candidate is made to face the Past Grand.] 



58 FIRST DEGREE. 

Past Grand. Hail to the covenant of friendship ! 

[The candidate is made to f aoe the Noble Grand.] 

The Lodge. [Led by the Warden.'] Hail to the cov- 
enant of friendship ! 

[After a pause.] 

Noble Grand. \_To Outside Conductor.'] Conductor, 
restore our brother to light. 

[The Outside Conductor removes the the Lodge 

is seated, and the candidate is led to the Noble Grand's chair.] 

Noble Grand. My brother, I will now instruct you in 
the mysteries of this degree. 

SECRET WORK OF THE FIRST DEGREE. 



In this Degree there is an alarm at the inner door — a pass- 
word, explanation of the password; a countersign, answer to 
the countersign ; a sign, answer to the sign ; a memento ; the 
warning sign; sign of safety; sign of danger; a grip, and a 
token. 

The Alarm at the inner door is three raps. 

The Password is Quiver, to be lettered at all times when 
used for working purposes, working into a Lodge, or in exam- 
ination prior to opening. 

In communicating this word, either to the Inside Guardian, 
or to the Warden, the brother must give the letters Q U I — , 
and if required by the Inside Guardian or Warden, he must 
give the remainder of the word — V E E, lettered as before. 
The Inside Guardian must be satisfied. 

Explanation of the Password, that from which Jonathan 
drew his arrows, to be given in full, but not used for working 
purposes. 

The Countersign and Answer are the same as in the Initia- 
tory Degree. 

The Sign is made as follows : extend the fingers of the right 
hand, place the thumb inside of and parallel with the fore- 
finger, carry the hand to the forehead with the thumb resting 
on the left temple, draw the hand across the forehead, fingers 
touching, until the end of the thumb reaches the right temple, 
pause a moment, then drop the hand to the side. 



FIRST DEGREE. 59 

Answer to the Sign ; grasp the root of the left ear with the 
forefinger and thumb of the right hand, fingers below, thumb 
at the root of the ear. 

Memento; the memento is a bundle of sticks, to represent 
the strength of union ; united cannot be broken ; a single stick 
to represent that separated each may easily be broken. 

The Warning Sign ; clasp the fingers of each hand with the 
thumb in front of the forefinger, place each elbow to the side 
of the body, extend each arm and closed hands horizontally. 

Sign of Safety ; the hands and arm being in same position 
as in warning sign, extend the index finger of the right hand, 
with which point to and just touch the second or knuckle 
joint of the thumb of the left hand. 

Sign of Danger ; elbows the same as before described; place 
the wrist of the right hand on the second or knuckle joint of 
the thumb of the left hand, extend the index finger and point 
towards the ground. 

Grip; form a link with the thumbs of the right hand / clasp 
hands, each inclosed, link of thumbs 

Token, the rainbow. 

[The Noble Grand shall then say:] 

Wishing to visit a Degree Lodge or a Subordinate Lodge 
opened in the First Degree, you will announce your presence 
by an alarm at the outside door [the alarm at th-3 outside door 
is the same as in the Initiatory], when the Outside Guardian 
will open the wicket and require from you the password of the 
current term. If correct, you will be admitted to the ante- 
room, After clothing yourself in appropriate regalia [having 
ascertained from the Outside Guardian that the Lodge is open 

in the First Degree], you will give at the inside 

door. The Inside Guardian will open the wicket and obtain 
from you your name, rank, and the number of the Lodge to 
which you belong. 

The Inside Guardian will close the wicket and inform the 
proper officer, who, if he is satisfied, will direct the Inside 
Guardian to admit you, if correct. The Inside Guardian re- 
opens the wicket and you must give him the password of the 
First Degree. If correct, the Inside Guardian will admit you, 
when you will advance to the centre of the room and address 
the Noble Grand with the countersign, who will acknowledge 
you as a brother by giving the same countersign. You will 
then turn and address the Vice Grand with the countersign, 
who will acknowledge you as a brother by giving you the same 



60 FIRST DEGREE. 

countersign. You will then again turn to the Noble Grand 
and address him with the sign of the First Degree ; the Noble 
Grand will give the proper answer to the sign. You will then 
be seated. 

"Wishing to leave the Lodge, before it is closed in the First 
Degree, you will address the presiding officer only, with the 
sign of the First Degree, and that officer will answer you with 
the proper sign. The Inside Guardian will then allow you to 
depart. 

If you are visiting your own Lodge and are without either 
the password of the current term or the password of this 
degree, the Noble Grand being so informed asks the Secretary 
as to your standing in the Lodge. If the Secretary reports 
favorably, directions will be given to admit you. But if the 
report is unfavorable, you are so informed by the proper 
Guardian, and you cannot be admitted. 

[The Noble Grand should carefully instruct the brother in 
the method of using the P. Ws in working into a Lodge and 
in examination prior to opening.] 



CONCLUDING CHARGE. 



Noble Grand. [Standing."] Brother, by the consent of 
your brethren you have been advanced to a position of 
great responsibility. The most ancient as well as the 
most true and beautiful example of earthly friendship 
has been presented before you, and you have in your 
own person illustrated a noble history. In that touch- 
ing drama, you stood in the presence of royalty and 
listened to the voice of praise, but youi merit provoked 
enmity, and you were hunted down as a traitor, when 
you were full of truth and honor. You have thus en- 
acted a part of the common life. Envy is the malicious 
foe of virtue, and is ever ready to destroy what it cannot 
imitate or surpass ; it is the vice of the weak and the 
vain, and the weapon of an ignoble mind. In suffering 
its persecution you have learned a lesson never to be 
forgotten. Man is prone to selfishness and thus to live 
for himself alone ; in this isolation he has but little sym- 



FIRST DEGREE. 61 

pathy with his fellow-man. In such a mind envy takes 
possession and hatred follows with its horrid brood. But 
there is also a divinity in man which weds him to lofty 
motives and honorable actions. The good have an 
affinity for each other which grows up into confidence 
and affection. Generous deeds and unselfish purposes 
are the strongest bonds of union — in his high estate^ no 
man liveth to himself. You have acted a part where 
all was oppression upon the one hand, and all was love 
and protection upon the other. Thus you have seen 
. the picture upon both sides. It is possible that men 
: should combine for the common good ; hence we have 
societies, communities, States, and nations united by a 
compact which protects their members. But the bond 
is stronger when individuals are united by personal con- 
tact, and held together by a personal covenant. Such a 
covenant we have all entered into, and you have been 
solemnly added to our fraternal union. By such a tie 
has God bound himself to His creatures on the scroll of 
heaven, with the rainbow as His seal. Such obligations 
have come down to us from every age and country ; by 
these the mystic rights of all nations have been protected 
and men everywhere brought into fellowship. By your 
solemn pledge you are now entitled to give and receive 
the tokens of a deathless friendship. Every Odd Fellow 
is your brother, and his family the sacred objects of 
your fraternal care. You have become one of a vast 
brotherhood which extends to many lands, and in their 
assemblies you will always be welcome. The mysteries 
you have learned will insure you an honorable reception 
in strange cities and distant States, where you will be 
the subject of tender attentions, because you are an Odd 
Fellow. 

Brother , such is the nature and 

effect of the covenant you have taken ; the emblematic 
color of this degree is pink. 

I now welcome you as a brother of the Degree of 
Friendship. 



SECOND DEGREE. 



INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE SECOND DEGREE. 



The Conductor, in conferring this degree, will proceed very 
deliberately. In the dramatic parts he should, after saying, 
"A priest is passing," appear to wait until the priest has time 
to come up. So when he says, " But passes by on the other- 
side," he should pause to allow him to go away. The same 
should occur in the case of the Levite, A sufficient time should 
be allowed for the Samaritan to come, after he speaks of him, 
and before he calls upon him for help. 

He will particularly note the various pauses required in 
delivering his part, and avoid all appearance of haste, so as to 
produce a solemn effect. The same directions will apply to the 
part of the Warden. 

Appropriate scenery, costumes, and furniture may be used 
in this as well as in the preceding degree, the same being left, 
within reasonable limits, to the option of the Lodge ; but in no 
case must such additions be allowed to conflict with or modify 
either the form or language of the written work. 

Any number of candidates may receive the First Part of the 
Second Degree at the same time. 

There will be no objection to having members to personate 
the Priest and the Levite in the Second Degree; if done, it 
should be in suitable costume, and the Priest and the Levite 
should come and go as required by the written work. In no 
event shall they be permitted to speak or take any part which 
will make them known to the candidate, or change any part of 
the work as now written. 

SECOND DEGREE OR THE DEGREE OF 
BROTHERLY LOVE. 



PAET I. 

[The Noble Grand will direct the Conductor to retire to the 
ante-room, receive and introduce the candidate.] 

[When the Conductor retires he shall address the chair.] 



SECOND DEGREE. 63 

[The Conductor will approach the inside door with the 
candidate, who is not , and give the alarm.] 

Inside Guardian. Vice Grand, there is an alarm at 
the door. 

Vice Grand. Attend to the alarm. 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket.] Who comes 
there ? 

Conductor. A brother, who has taken the covenant of 
the Order, and now seeks to advance further into our 
mysteries. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the ivicket.'] A brother 
has taken the covenant of the Order, and now seeks to 
advance further into our mysteries. 

Vice Grand. Why does he seek to advance ? 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket.] Why does he 
seek to advance ? 

Conductor. Because he would learn how to discharge 
his obligation. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket.] Because he 
would learn how to discharge his obligation. 

Vice Grand. Admit him, that he may be instructed 
in the divine lesson of humanity. 

[Being admitted, the Conductor will proceed with the candi- 
date to the chair of the Vice-Grand, and introduce him as 
follows :] 

Conductor. Vice Grand, I present to you for instruc- 
tion in the Degree of Brotherly Love our worthy 
brother , who has been duly elected thereto. 

Vice Grand. [To the candidate.] Before you re- 
ceive the mysteries of this degree are you willing to 
enter into a solemn obligation to retain its secrets, and 
to perform all the lawful duties which it may enjoin? 



64 SECOND DEGREE. 

[If the candidate answers in the affirmative, the Vice Grand 
continues :] 

Then place yourself in the attitude in which you were 
initiated into this Order and repeat after me. 

[Calls the Lodge up.] 

O. B. N. 

I, , in the presence of the brethren of the 

Degree of Brotherly Love now assembled, do solemnly 
promise that I will never reveal the signs, secrets, or 
mysteries of the Degree of Brotherly Love to any per- 
son, unless by the laws and usages of this Order he is 
entitled to receive such information ; but will guard 
them with jealous care from all persons who have not 
lawfully obtained the same. To the faithful performance 
of all which I pledge my sacred honor. 

[The- Lodge to he seated.] 

Vice Grand. [To the candidate.'] Are you willing to 
submit to the ordeal by which you may become a 
brother of this degree ? 

Candidate answers. 

Vice Grand. [To the Conductor.'] Let the brother be 
taken to the ante-room, that he may re-enter and take 
another step in fraternity. 

[The Conductor, without addressing the chair, will retire with 
the candidate to the ante-room.] 



PART II. 

[The Conductor will the candidate, place a 

short cloak on him, and conduct him to the inside door, where 
the Conductor will give the alarm.] 

Inside Guardian. Noble Grand, there is an alarm at 
the door. 

Noble Grand. Attend to the alarm. 






SECOND DEGREE. 65 



Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket.'] Who comes 
there ? 

Conductor. A brother who is ready to receive the 
mysteries of this degree. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket.] Noble Grand, 
a brother is ready to receive the mysteries of this 
degree. 

Noble Grand. Whence comes he ? 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the ivicket.] Whence 
comes he ? 

Conductor. From Jerusalem, and is traveling to Jeri- 
cho on a mission of humanity. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket] From Jerusa- 
lem, and is traveling to Jericho on a mission of hu- 
manity. 

Noble Grand. Admit him in the name of that human- 
ity which he invokes. 

[The Conductor enters with the candidate, and conducts him 
to the chair of the Noble Grand.] 

Conductor, Noble Grand, a stranger is passing this 
way. 

Noble Grand. Traveler, whither art thou journey- 
ing? 

Conductor. [For the candidate.] To Jericho. 

Noble Grand. Let the traveler go down to Jericho, 
and may no danger meet him by the way. 

[The Conductor walks around the room with the candidate, 
and speaks as follows:] 

Conductor. The day is fine, the way is pleasant, and 
let us hope that the journey will be safe. How those 
pines cluster on the mountain side, and in the distance 



66 SECOND DEGREE. 

the sea is so calm and beautiful. That row of green 
trees marks the course of Jordan, the sacred river of the 
chosen people. But see, we are entering a narrow defile 
of the hills. 






[Several members as robbers surround them in the middle 
of the Lodge-room, crying out, " Stand and deliver !" " Strike !" 
" Lay on !" "Death !" and such like exclamations.] 

[During the confusion, no person but the Conductor shall be 
perwAtted to touch the candidate. The Conductor shall strike the 
candidate on the shoulder with his open hand, and cause him 
to lie down. When the candidate is lying down the thieves 
run away, taking away the cloak of the candidate.] 

[A low bench, box, or lounge may be provided as part of the 
furniture upon which the candidate may be laid. No rough 
usage to be allowed,] 

[The candidate continues lying down, his cloak being taken 
away.] 

[The Conductor, after a pause and speaking for the candi- 
date.] 

Conductor [Speaking slowly and painfully to himself.'] 
Alas ! alas ! I am stripped of my raiment and wounded 
and left for dead. 

Conductor. [Calling a little louder.] Help! help! 

Conductor. [Again speaking to himself] Ah ! a priest 
is passing. 

Conductor. [After a pause, then calling a little louder.] 
Help ! holy servant of the Temple. I am robbed and 
wounded. 

Conductor. [Pausing, then speaking to himself] But no, 
he will not look upon me, but passes by on the other side. 

Conductor. [Calling a little louder.] Help! help! 

Conductor. [To himself.] God of Israel, help me 
« — he is gone ! Must I linger here and die ? No ! be- 
hold a Levite — he stops — he comes this way — he is here. 



SECOND DEGREE. 67 

Conductor. [Calling a little loader. ] O sod of Levy, 
servant of the altar, help me! I am robbed and 
wounded ! 

Conductor. [Pausing, then speaking to himself.] But 
no, he looks upon me and has no pity. He also passes 
by on the other side. 

Conductor. [Calling a little louder.'] Help! help! 
Son of Levi, help ! 

Conductor. [To himself.] He also has forsaken me. 
But who comes this way ? It is a hated Samaritan, an 
enemy of my people. 

Conductor. [Pausing, then calling a little louder.] 
Help ! Man of Samaria : I am wounded and dying ! 

[Warden slowly approaches the candidate, and as he ap- 
proaches, says :] 

Warden. [As Samaritan.] What have we here ? An 
Israelite wounded and bleeding by the wayside ! The 
poor man is about to perish. Is he not after all my 
brother ? 

[He advances to the traveler.] 

Warden. Ah, my friend, you shall not perish. 
[Lays his hands upon him.] 

Warden. Take this garment for your protection. 
[Assisted by the Conductor, he puts a cloak upon him.] 

Warden. Arise, and lean upon me. 

[Lifts him up.] 

Warden. Come, cheer up and take heart, and we will 
fiod a place of safety. 

[The Warden leads the candidate around the Lodge-room, 
and then to the side facing the Past Grand.] 



68 SECOND DEGREE. 

Warden. [To the traveler. ] Here is an inn, a place 
of refuge. [Calling a little louder.'] Ho, there! ho! 
open, landlord ! 

[Warden knocks loudly on a table or pedestal.] 

Past Grand. [As host, after a pause.] The door is 
open ; enter, travelers. 

[The candidate is lead near to the Past Grand and seated.] 

Warden. Here, host, is a wounded man, who fell 
among thieves; give him attention, for he has been 
robbed and left for dead. Take this money and provide 
for him. 

[Shakes small coins in his hand.] 

Warden. Whatsoever thou spendest more, when I 
come again, I will repay thee. 

Past Grand. [As host] He shall be cared for, good 
Samaritan. 

[After a pause, the candidate will be assisted to rise and be 
taken twice, slowly, around the Lodge-room by the Conductor, 
and be led to the chair of the Noble Grand.] 

Conductor. Noble Grand, the traveler has returned. 

Noble Grand. Traveler, thou hast been robbed and 
left for dead ; a priest has seen thee, and a Levite has 
looked upon thee. A Samaritan, an enemy of thy 
people, came where thou wast. The priest and the 
Levite were thy brothers of the seed of Abraham. 
Which of these was thy true brother and friend? 

Conductor. [For the traveler.] He was my brother 
and friend who had mercy ou me. 

Noble Grand. Go thou, O traveler ! and do likewise ; 
and know that the true priest is not of the Temple, nor 
the true Levite of the altar, but he alone is the servant 
of God and thy brother, who delivers the needy when 
he crieth, the poor also, and him that hath no helper. 



SECOND DEGREE. 69 

[Noble Grand calls up the Lodge.] 

Noble Grand. \To the Lodge."] Brothers, what think 
you of that which you have witnessed ? 

The Lodge. [Led by the Warden.'] He is my brother 
and friend who had mercy on me. 

[To be repeated.] 

Noble Grand. \_To the Conductor.] Let the eyes of 
the brother be opened, that he may see a Lodge of 
Brotherly Love. 

[The Conductor removes the (blind), and the Lodge is seated.] 

Noble Grand. I will now instruct you in the mysteries 
of this degree. 



SECRET WORK OF THE SECOND DEGREE. 



In this degree there is an alarm at the inner door — a pass- 
word — a countersign — answer to the countersign — a sign — an- 
swer to the sign — a grip, and a token. 

The Alarm at the inner door is three raps. 

The Password is Moses, to be lettered at all times when used 
for w T orking purposes, working into a Lodge, or in examination 
prior to opening. In communicating this word either to the 
Inside Guardian or to the Warden, the brother must give the 
letters M O, and if required by the Inside Guardian or War- 
den, he must give the remainder of the word— S E S, lettered 
as before. The Inside Guardian and Warden must be satisfied. 

The Countersign and answer are the same as in the preced- 
ing degree. 

Sign, the sign is made as follows : the right hand is placed 
across the left hand, palms touching ; clasp the hand, both by 
fingers and thumbs, thumbs meeting. The answer is the same 
as the sign. 

Grip; clasp the right hands, with the thumb press the third 
or knuckle joint of the second finger. No shaking hands in 
making the grip. 

Token, Moses Kod. 



70 SECOND DEGREE. 

[The Noble Grand shall then say :] 

Wishing to visit a Degree Lodge or a Subordinate Lodge 
open in the Second Degree, you will announce your presence 
by an alarm at the outside door [the alarm at the outside door 
is the same as in the Initiatory], when the Outside Guardian 
will open the wicket and require from you the password of the 
current term. If correct, you will be admitted to the ante- 
room. After clothing yourself in appropriate regalia [haying 
ascertained from the Outside Guardian that the Lodge is open 

in the Second Degree], you will give at the inside 

door. The Inside Guardian will open the wicket, and obtain 
from you your name, rank, and the number of the Lodge to 
which you belong. 

The Inside Guardian will close the wicket and inform the 
proper officer, who, if he is satisfied, will direct the Inside 
Guardian to admit you,, if correct. The Inside Guardian re- 
opens the wicket and you must give him the password of the 
Second Degree. If correct, the Inside Guardian will admit 
you, when you will advance to the centre of the room and 
address the Noble Grand with the countersign, who will ac- 
knowledge you as a brother by giving the same countersign. 
You will then turn and address the Vice Grand with the 
countersign, who will acknowledge you as a brother with the 
same countersign. You will then again turn to the Noble 
Grand and address him with the sign of the Second Degree ; 
the Noble Grand will give the proper answer to the sign. You 
will then be seated. 

Wishing to leave the Lodge before it is closed in the Second 
Degree, you will address the presiding officer only with the 
sign of the Second Degree, and that officer will answer you with 
the proper sign. The Inside Guardian will then allow you to 
depart. 

If you are visiting your own Lodge and are without either 
the password of the current term or the password of this degree, 
tl 3 Noble Grand, being so informed, asks the Secretary as to 
your standing in the Lodge. If the Secretary reports favor- 
ably, directions will be given to admit you. But if the report 
is unfavorable, you are informed by the proper Guardian, and 
you cannot be admitted. 

[The Noble Grand shall carefully instruct the brother in the 
method cf using the P. W's in working into a Lodge and in 
examination prior to opening.] 



SECOND DEGREE. 71 

LECTURE OF THE DEGREE OF 
BROTHERLY LOVE. 



Noble Grand. My brother, in the Degree of Friend- 
ship, you assumed an obligation which changed your 
relations to a vast number of persons. You can never 
forget the hour when you were the object of envy and 
hatred, and were cheered by a spectacle of confidence 
and devotion. It was a moment of heart-felt enjoyment 
when your hand was grasped in friendship, and a voice 
full of sympathy gave you encouragement. It was then 
that two hearts melted into one in a solemn league and 
fraternal covenant. By that engagement you were 
bound to perform the offices of Brotherly Love. Heaven 
has witnessed your vow, and the Common Father has 
smiled on that compact. All Odd Fellows are now your 
comrades, your advisers, and your friends. A solemn 
duty has been devolved upon you, and you have been 
taught how it ought to be performed. The central link 
in the chain of Odd Fellowship is u mutual assistance." 
Fraternity, unless embodied in acts of humanity, is but 
an empty name. If a brother be naked and destitute of 
daily food, and one of you say unto him, Depart in 
peace ! be ye warmed and filled ! notwithstanding ye 
give him not those things which are needful for the 
body, what doth it profit ? The answer is obvious : he 
who witnesses suffering and does not hasten to relieve it, 
is ignorant of the lesson, that it is more blessed to give 
than to receive. He is an enemy of his race who does 
not care for its welfare, and is wedded to selfishness and 
greed. Friendship leads to Brotherly Love, which 
makes the strong to support the weak, the young to rev- 
erence the old, the rich to help the poor, the educated 
to instruct the ignorant, the well to nurse the sick, and 
makes all good men seek to imitate the goodness of the 
Father of all men. 



72 SECOND DEGREE. 

My brother, in the Degree of Brotherly Love you 
have acted a part in a famous drama, which has received 
the plaudits of the world for many generations. You 
were assaulted and robbed, wounded and left upon the 
highway to perish. A priest of the Temple journeyed 
that way and saw your condition ; his office required 
that he should have pity, but he passed on, and left you 
to die by the wayside. A Levite, who swung the golden 
censers in the holy place and served at the consecrated 
altar, also saw you, and approached and looked upon 
you ; but he, like the robbers and the priest, abandoned 
you to your fate. But wonderful to relate, an enemy 
on his journey came that way and found you bleeding 
and suffering. Although he knew that you were not of 
his religion, nor of his people, and that you were not 
his friend ; though he had no fortune and no tithes with 
which to pay for your nursing and support, yet his 
bowels of compassion were moved ; he stopped — he ran 
to your relief. How tenderly he raised your stricken 
body and poured balm into your wounds, and how 
gently he brought you to life by words of pity and en- 
couragement! You can never forget that he exposed 
himself to the keen mountain winds when he took off his 
cloak and wrapped it around you. How carefully he 
led you to the inn, and with what liberality he gave the 
money that assured you of shelter and safety. Such is 
the story of the good Samaritan. All Odd Fellows, 
so far as they have the ability, seek to imitate this mem- 
orable example. Learn from this history that he only 
is an Odd Fellow who has pity and mercy, and who 
hastens to the relief of a brother in distress. Member- 
ship in a Lodge is nothing, the obligation of friendship 
is nothing, the assertion of our principles less than noth- 
ing, unless we have Brotherly Love, which is the bond 
of unity. Of all historical men, Moses exhibited the 
most self-denial and fraternal affection. He represents 
an ideal of unselfishness without a parallel. A man of 
rare learning, he cast his lot among a multitude of un- 



SECOND DEGREE. 73 

cultured slaves; the adopted son of royalty, he laid 
down his rank and riches, and became an outcast for 
defending one of his lowly people. It was enough for 
him that they were poor and afflicted. For them he 
left a royal court and became an exile in the wilderness; 
and, having led them to national greatness, he meekly 
died in sight of that inheritance which, denied to him, 
became the portion of his ungrateful brethren. 

Such are the examples which compose the instruction 
in this degree, whose emblematic color is Blue. And 
now, by authority of the Independent Order of Odd 
Fellows, I declare you a brother of the Royal Blue, or 
Degree of Brotherly Love. 



THIRD DEGREE, 



OR THE 



DEGREE OF TRUTH. 



PART I. 

[In conferring this degree, the candidate shall not be , 

but the following shall be observed :] 

[The Noble Grand will direct the Conductor to retire to the 
ante room, receive, and introduce the candidate.] 

[When the Conductor retires he shall address the chair.] 

[The Conductor, having examined the candidate in the First 
and Second Degrees, will approach the inside door with the 
candidate and give the alarm.] 

Inside Guardian. Noble Grand, there is an alarm at 
the door. 

Noble Grand. Attend to the alarm 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket.] Who comes 
there ? 

Conductor. A brother, who, haying taken the cove- 
nant of the Order, has learned the divine lesson of hu- 
manity, and now seeks to obtain the Degree of Truth. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket. ] Noble Grand, 
a brother, having taken the covenant of the Order, has 
learned the divine lesson of humanity, and now seeks to 
obtain the Degree of Truth. 

Noble Grand. Why does he seek to obtain this degree ? 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the wicket.] Why does he 
seek to obtain this degree ? 

Conductor. Because Truth i3 the imperial virtue. 



THIRD DEGREE. 75 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket.'] Because Truth 
is the imperial virtue. 

Noble Grand. What does he expect from the Truth? 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the ivicket.] What does he 
expect from the Truth ? 

Conductor. That it will teach him his duty to God 
and his fellow-man. 

Inside Guardian. [Closing the wicket ,] That it will 
teach him his duty to God and his fellow-man. 

Noble Grand. Admit the brother to the mysteries of 
the Degree of Truth. 

[Being admitted, the Conductor will proceed with the candi- 
date to the chair of the Vice Grand, and introduce him, as 
follows:] 

Conductor. Vice Grand, I present to you , 

a worthy brother, who having been duly elected, seeks 
to obtain the mysteries of this degree. 

Vice Grand. [Standing ] Has he been found worthy 
in the degrees he has already received, and is he one 
who is likely to perform with fidelity the obligations of 
an Odd Fellow ? 

Conductor. He seems in all respects worthy of our 
confidence. 

Vice Grand. Have you carefully examined the brother 
in the preceding degrees ? 

Conductor. I have, and find him correct. 

VICE GRAND'S CHARGE. 

Vice Grand. Brother, you are now entering upon the 
last degree of a Subordinate Lodge — that which crowns 
the fabric ; and we devote it to the principle of Truth, 
which is appropriately introduced in this portion of our 
work, for it follows close after Love, and has an intimate 



76 THIRD DEGREE. 



! n ! 



connection with it. It is the spontaneous result of genuine 
and constant Love. If you are faithful to the duties 
enjoined in the last degree, Truth will appear in all you 
say and do, as an instrinsic ornament of your character. 
If Love is the fundamental element of all morality, Truth 
is the imperial virtue. It is the treasure for which the 
candid mind ever seeks, the consummation for which we 
apply in all our investigations. It is the sanction of 
every appeal that is made for the good and the right. 
It condemns the wrongs, the sins, and the falsehoods of 
the world. It may be long in achieving its victory, but 
it is omnipotent, and must triumph at last. The man of 
truth is the best and the strongest man ; his soul, like 
a spring of clear water, reflects the light of heaven and 
is full of life. ^His speech and his actions are always 
just — he wins involuntary respect — he blesses and puri- 
fies all around him. He is a solid landmark amid the 
waves of faction, the storms of passion, and the conflicts 
of error* 

[To the Conductor.] 

Conduct the brother to our Noble Grand. 

[The Vice Grand to be seated.] 

[The Conductor leads the candidate to the chair of the Noble 
Grand.] 

Conductor. Noble Grand, by order of the Vice Grand, 
I present to you this brother for obligation. 






Noble Grand. [Standing."] Brother, in view of what 
has been intimated in this degree by our worthy Vice 
Grand, are you willing to enter into an obligation with 
us? 






[If the candidate replies in the affirmative, the Noble Grand 
will call the Lodge up and continue:] 

Noble Grand. Place your right hand on your left breast 
and repeat after me : 









THIRD DEGREE. 77 

O. B. N. 

I, , in the presence of the members of the 

Degree of Truth now assembled, do solemnly promise, 
that I will conceal and never reveal the signs, secrets, 
and mysteries of this degree, unless it be to a brother 
Odd Fellow of this degree in good standing, or in a law- 
ful Lodge of brothers who shall be legally authorized to 
receive the same. And, furthermore, I promise to be 
faithful to my former obligations in this Order to the 
extent of my power so to do. To the faithful perform- 
ance of all which, I pledge my sacred honor. 

[The Lodge is seated.] 

Noble Grand. Brother, are you willing to advance, 
that you may become a brother of this degree ? 

[If the candidate answers in the affirmative :] 

Noble Grand. Brother Conductor, let the brother be 
taken to the ante-room, that he may re-enter and be 
instructed in the Degree of Truth. 

[The Conductor, without addressing the chair, will retire 
with the candidate to the ante- room.] 



PART II. 

[The candidate in this Part will be attired in a white robe.] 

[The Noble Grand will be attired in a scarlet robe and cap, 
and he may wear a wig and beard.] 

[A chart containing the emblems of the degrees will be 
placed near the principal chair, and the Conductor (with a 
wand or sword) will point out to the candidate each emblem as 
it is being described by the proper officer.] 

[The Priests, in describing the meaning of the emblems, 
must remain at their respective stations, and speak therefrom.] 

[The Couductor will advance to the inside door with the 
c.mdidate, and give 'he alarm.] 



78 THIRD DEGREE. 

Inside Guardian. Vice Grand, there is an alarm at 
the door. 

Vice Grand. Attend to the alarm. 

Inside Guardian. [Opening the vticket.'] Who comes 
there ? 

Conductor. A brother who is ready to receive the 
mysteries of this degree. 

Inside Guardian. [ Closing the wicket ] A brother is 
ready to receive the mysteries of this degree. 

Vice Grand. Admit him. 

[Being admitted, the Conductor will proceed with the candi- 
date to the Vice Grand, and introduce him as follows :] 

Conductor. Vice Grand, I have the pleasure of pre- 
senting to you for instruction Brother , who 

is a probationer, has served his time as such, and has 
proved to be obedient and willing to do his duty in 
conformity with his obligations. 

Vice Grand. Brother , I welcome you, 

and commend your zeal for promotion in our Order, 
fully believing that you have an ambition to do good. 
Before you can be advanced to the full enjoyment of 
this degree, it is necessary that you give acceptable 
answers to the following questions in presence of the 
brothers here assembled : 

[Several brothers draw near, so as to nearly surround the 
candidate. The Vice Grand proceeds :] 






Do you know of any reason why we should not intrust 
to you the mysteries of this degree ? 

Candidate answers. 

Vice Grand. Is it your desire to receive the Scarlet 
Degree, for the purpose of promoting your moral and 
intellectual welfare ? 

Candidate answers. 






THIRD DEGREE. 79 

Vice Grand. Brethren of the Priestly Order, are you 
satisfied with the answers ? 

[If satisfied with the answers, each member says, I am.] 

[The brothers surrounding the candidate retire.] 

Vice Grand. Conductor, you will introduce the 
brother to the High Priest of this degree. 

[The Conductor leads the candidate near the principal chair.] 

Conductor. High Priest Aaron, I present to you 

Brother , a probationer, who is qualified to 

receive the Scarlet Degree or Priestly Order. 

Noble Grand. [As High Priest.] My Brother, you will 
take your position in charge of the Conductor, and be 
attentive to the instruction you are about to receive. 

[The candidate may here be seated until the symbols have 
all been described and shown to him.] 

Noble Grand. Brother Warden, what are the symbols 
of the Initiatory Degree ? 

Warden. The All-Seeing Eye, the Three Links, the 
Skull and Cross-Bones, and the Scythe. 

Noble Grand. [As High Priest.] Priest of the Initia- 
tory Degree, what do these symbols teach. 

Left Supporter of the Vice Grand. [As Priest of the 
Initiatory Degree.] The All-Seeing Eye, enveloped in 
a blaze of light and glory, reminds us that the scruti- 
nizing eye of Omnipotence is ever upon us ; that all our 
thoughts, words, and actions are open to his view. 
The light of morning and the darkness of night are alike 
to him ; and he trieth the reins and searcheth the hearts 
of the children of men. Yet at the same time it illus- 
trates that sleepless goodness which looks down in 
mercy upon our frailties, and kindly ministers to our 
ever-returning wants. 



80 THIRD DEGREE. 

The Three Links represent the grand motto of our 
Order : Friendship, Love, and Truth. They belong to 
that long chain of moral principles that bind us together 
as a fraternity. They are welded in the fires of purity 
by the sacred hands of Jehovah. Thus bound with the 
chain of sincere friendship, unfeigned love, and simple 
truth, we may live in the bonds of peace, and harmoni- 
ously pursue our labors for the amelioration of our race. 

The Skull and Cross-Bones are to remind us of the 
consuming process of nature. To-day we are in the full 
realization of health and enjoyment of the pleasures of 
this world. In a little while, the ever-burning furnace 
of time will consume to ashes all that hath life and 
vigor in this terrestrial sphere. They forcibly remind 
us, that we are bound by solemn engagements to give 
to the mortal remains of a departed brother decent 
sepulture ; and, while we lay his body in the tomb, to 
cherish a lively recollection of his virtues, and bury all 
his imperfections beneath the clod that rests upon his 
bosom. 

The Scythe, the universal emblem of time, is to us 
the symbol of death. As the grass falls before the 
mower's scythe, so man, like the flower and grass of the 
field, must wither beneath the touch of time, and fall 
before the scythe of the King of Terrors. 

Noble Grand. \_As High Priest"] Warden, what are 
the symbols belonging to the First Degree, or the Degree 
of Friendship ? 

Warden. The Bow and Arrows, the Quiver, and the 
Bundle of Sticks. 

Noble Grand. [As High Priest.] Priest of the First 
Degree, what do these symbols teach ? 

Right Supporter of the Vice Grand. \_As Priest of 
First Degree."] The Bow, Arrows, and Quiver are to 
remind us of the covenant between Jonathan and David, 
and by them we are taught to put forth every laudable 



THIRD DEGREE. 81 

effort to save a brother from the wrath of an enemy. 
They also remind ns, that we should always be ready to 
do battle in the cause of truth and justice. 

The Bundle of Sticks is a beautiful emblem of 
union, and teaches us the importance of that virtue in 
our benevolent enterprise. Separate the sticks, and the 
strength of a child may destroy them ; but while united 
a giant's power might be exerted in vain to break them. 
Separated, we should be speedily broken and destroyed 
by the accumulating tide of worldly selfishness ; but 
united as brothers we bid defiance to all opposition, and 
triumph over the greatest difficulties. 

Noble Grand. [As High Priest.] Warden, what are 
the symbols belonging to the Second Degree, or the 
Degree of Brotherly Love ? 

Warden. The Axe, the Heart and Hand, the Globe, 
the Ark, and the Serpent. 

Noble Grand. [As High Priest.'] Priest of the Second 
Degree, what do these symbols teach ? 

Left Supporter of the Noble Grand. [As Priest of the 
Second Degree.] The Axe is an ancient implement of 
the artisan. It is an emblem of progress, as by it the 
pioneer makes advancement through the forest for the 
spread of civilization. 

The Heart and Hand imply that when we greet 
our brethren, it should be with that sincerity and affec- 
tion which proceed from the heart. This emblem, also, 
reminds us of that constant and uniform desire for the 
welfare of our brothers, which should impel us to action 
in the furtherance of those plans that will most promote 
their happiness. 

The Globe represents the extensive field of our labors. 
It not only teaches that we are to move onward in our 
work until misfortune has no want to relieve and sorrow 
no tears to dry ; but, also, that from whatever nation our 
brethren may come, they are not to be sent empty away. 



82 THIRD DEGREE. 






The Ark reminds us of the receptacle of the two 
tables of stone upon which the Ten Commandments were 
written; and as the prosperity of the ancient Israelites 
depended upon their observance of that law deposited in 
the Ark of the Covenant, so will our happiness be pro 
moted by an observance of our good and wholesome laws. 

The Serpent is an emblem of wisdom, and is placec 
among our symbols to indicate the necessity of a wise cau 
tion, which will protect, our mysteries from improper dis- 
closure and guide us in the proper regulation of life anc 
conduct. 






Noble Grand. [As High Priest.'] Warden, what are 
the symbols belonging to the Third Degree, or the De- 
gree of Truth ? 

Warden. The Scales and Sword, the Bible, the Hour- 
Glass, and the Coffin. 

Noble Grand [As High Priest.] Priest of the Third 
Degree, what does these symbols teach? 

Eight Supporter of the Noble Grand. [As Priest of the 
Third Degree.] The Scales and Sword are emblemati- 
cal of justice, which judges with candor and rewards 
with impartiality. Among Odd Fellows, both justice 
and mercy are administered without regard to the false 
distinctions of society. In the Lodge-room, the high and 
the low, the rich and the poor, the learned and the un- 
learned, meet as brothers, and unitedly engage in the 
promotion of benevolence and truth. 

The Bible is an exhaustless fountain of Truth, the 
store-house from which all our principles are derived. 
Guided by its instructions, we may approximate that 
golden age when the fetters of prejudice will be broken, 
the shackles of metal and moral bondage fall off, and 
man, redeemed and disenthralled from the slavish life of 
the passions, will assert his high birthright, and own the 
ties which bind him in universal consanguinity with his 
brother man. 



THIRD DEGREE. 83 

The Hour-Glass indicates the march of time, and 
tells us of the fraility of human life. Like tho sands of the 
glass, we are passing away. How important that we im- 
prove our fleeting hours, in order that we may meet our 
end with peace. 

The Coffjn points to the last home of man. How 
great or small, high or low, all must meet on this com- 
mon level — all must submit to the dominion of death. 
How cheerless the home of the dead unrelieved by the 
prospect of immortal life ! But Hope bends over man's 
last resting-place a bow bright with immortality, which, 
based upon earth, extends far into the sacred realms of 
eternity. 

[If the candidate has been seated he must now rise.] 

CONCLUDING CHARGE. 

Noble Grand. [_As High Priest ] My brother, you are 
now admitted to the Third Degree, known also as the 
Triestly Order. You have already been informed that 
it is dedicated to the principle of truth. You were pre- 
pared for admission by having placed en you a white 
robe. This was intended to represent the purity of truth. 
But the emblematic color of this degree is Scarlet, im- 
plying that truth is an imperial virtue. The pure white 
robe is an external symbol, representing that your lips 
should speak the truth, and at all times be ready to ad- 
minister words of affection to a brother requiring conso- 
lation. You are now placed in a position among us to 
gain rank, the highest in a Lodge. It, therefore, becomes 
your duty to enforce by example, as well as by precept, 
the tenets of our Order. Its mysteries are confined to 
your charge; you are to preserve them inviolate; duty 
and honor, your own solemn vows, all require that you 
be faithful, and that you also guard your brethern against 
any breach of fidelity. Be true and steadfast in this, as 
well a3 in all things, and thus demonstrate that merit 
constitutes the great title to our privileges, and that on 
you they have not been undeservedly conferred. 






84 THIRD DEGREE. 

[Calls the Lodge up.] 

Members of the Priestly Order, are you willing for 

Brother to receive the decoration of the 

Third Degree or Priestly Order ? 

The Lodge answers. 

[The Lodge to be seated.] 

Noble Grand. [As High Priest"] Conductor and 
Warden, you will now disrobe the brother. 

[They take off his robe.] 

My Brother, I present to you this collar ; it indicates 
your rank. We trust that your zeal for the promotion 
of the principles of the Order will be ardent and pure. 
I willnow instruct you in the mysteries of this degree. 

[The Noble Grand instructs in the Aim. — P. W.— Counter- 
sign — Ans. to the Countersign — Working Sign and Ans. — 
Ex pi. of Working Sign and Ans. — Principal Sign — Grip — and 
Voting Sign.] 

SECRET WORK OF THE THIRD DEGREE. 



In this degree there is an Alarm at the inner door — a 
Password — a Countersign — Answer to the Countersign 
—a Working Sign and Answer — Explanation of the 
Working Sign and Answer — Principle Sign — a Grip — 
a Voting Sign — and the Honors of the Order. 

The Alarm at the inside door is three raps. 

The Password is AARON, to be lettered at all times 
when used for working purposes, working into a Lodge, 
or in examination prior to opening. In communicating 
this word either to the Inside Guardian or to the War- 
den, the brother must give the letters A A — and if re- 
quired by the Inside Guardian or Warden he must give 
the remainder of the word — R O N, lettered as before. 
The Inside Guardian and Warden must be satisfied. 



THIRD DEGREE. 85 

The Countersign and Answer are the same as in the 
preceding degree. ^ 

Working Sign. The Sign is made as follows : close 
the right hand except the index finger, which extend, 
thumb over fiugers, point to the centre of the forehead 
with the point of the index finger. 

Answer: Place the right hand over the mouth, the 
fingers to conform to the face, thumb extended upwards, 
looking the brother in the face. 

The Explanation of the Working Sign and Answer is — 
Think before you speak. 

Principle Sign. The Sign is made as follows : place 
the thumb of the right hand on the right nipple, and use 
it as a pivot, make a span downwards with the little 
finger, then a span across the breast with the index or 
forefinger. 

Grip, clasp the right hands, with the thumb press 
hard on the third or knuckle joint of the third finger, no 
shaking hands in making the grip. 

The Voting Sign, is the right hand uplifted. 

[The Noble Grand shall then say :] 

Wishing to visit a Degree Lodge, or a Subordinate Lodge 
open in the Third Degree, you will announce your presence 
by an alarm at the outside door [the alarm at the outside door 
is the same as in the Initiatory], when the Outside Guardian 
will open the wicket and require from you the password of the 
current term. If correct, you will be admitted to the ante- 
room. After clothing yourself in appropriate regalia [having 
ascertained from the Outside Guardian that the Lodge is open 
in the Third Degree], you will give (three raps) at the inside 
door. The Inside Guardian will open the wicket and obtain 
from you your name, rank, and the number of the Lodge to 
which you belong. 

The Inside Guardian will close the wicket and inform the 
proper officer, who, if he is satisfied, will direct the Inside 
Guardian to admit you, if correct. The Inside Guardian re- 
opens the wicket, and you must give him the password of the 
Third Degree. If correct, the Inside Guardian will admit 
you, when you will advance to the centre of the room and 



86 THIRD DEGREE. 

address the Noble Grand with the countersign, who will 
acknowledge you as a brother by giving the same countersign. 
You will then turn and address the Vice Grand, who will 
acknowledge you as a brother with the same countersign. 
You will then again turn to the Noble Grand and address him 
with the sign of the Third Degree ; the Noble Grand will give 
the proper answer to the sign. You will then be seated. 

Wishing to leave the Lodge before it is closed, you will 
address the presiding officer with the sign of the Third Degree, 
and that officer will answer you with the proper sign. You 
will then receive from the Vice Grand the password of the 
evening, which you must give to the Inside Guardian before 
you will be allowed to depart. 

. Should you wish to re-enter the Lodge on the same evening, 
you may use the Vice Grand's password, or the password of the 
Third Degree, at the inner door for that purpose. The Vice 
Grand's retiring password is only used in this degree. 

If you are visiting your own Lodge and are without the pass- 
word of the current term, or the password of this degree, the 
Noble Grand being so informed, asks the Secretary as to your 
standing in the Lodge. It the Secretary reports favorably, 
directions will be given to admit you ; but if the report is un- 
favorable, you are so informed by the proper Guardian, and 
you cannot be admitted. 

[The Noble Grand shouk carefully instruct the brother in 
the method ol using the P. Wjs in working into a Lodge and 
m examination prior to opening.] 

[After which the Noble Grand will call up the Lodge and in- 
struct the brother in the Honors of the Order, and to whom they 
are to be given, requiring the brother to face the Warden, and to 
participate with the members in the performance of the cere- 
mony according to the work — the candidate taking position to 
the left of the Conductor.] 

The Honors of the Order are given as follows : 
Officers and brothers standing; the Warden stands in 
front of the chair of the Noble Grand, the members 
looking to and following his motions, which are, place 
the open right hand across the left hand, palms touch- 
ing, clap the hands three times, pause a moment and 
repeat, pause a moment and repeat. 



THIRD DEGREE. 87 

[After the performance of this ceremony and the candidate 
has been placed facing the Vice Grand — ] 

Noble Grand. [To the Conductor.'] Conductor, you 
will proceed with the closing ceremony. 

[The Conductor proceeds with the candidate to the centre of 
the room and makes him face the Past Grand.] 

Past Grand. [Advancing to the candidate.'] By this 
grip \]ie gives the grip of the First Degree.] I greet you 
in PYiendship, as one who has attained to the First 
Degree. 

[The Conductor turns the candidate to face the Vice Grand.] 

Vice Grand. [Advancing to the candidate.] By this 
grip [he gives the grip of the Second Degree], I greet 
you in Brotherly Love, as a member of the Second 
Degree. 

[The Conductor turns the candidate to face the Noble Grand.] 

Noble Grand. [Advancing to the candidate.] Brother, 
I welcome you in Truth, and urge you to attend our 
meetings, that you may assist your brethren and promote 
your own happiness by acts of mutual assistance. By 
this grip [he gives the grip of the Third Degree], I greet 
you as a brother of the Degree of Truth, and I now de- 
clare you fully entitled to all the rights and privileges of 
the three degrees of Odd Fellowship. 

[The Noble Grand resumes his station.] 

Noble Grand. Brothers, I now introduce to you 

Brother , who has been advanced to the 

Degree of Truth. You will welcome him a& a Brother 
of this degree. 

The Lodge. Welcome, brother. 

[The Noble Grand seats the Lodge.l 



w 




i<^Sh 



NOTE. 






>HIS work is published with no intention of general 
circulation, but to furnish a long needed want for a 
Book of Instruction, and the compiler feels sure that 



* in the issuance thereof he has filled a void long 
needful. 
It will be found of great value to all Members of the Order. 

The Compiler. 




INDEX. 



PAGE. 

Title Page 1 

Committees on Revision 3 

Diagram of a Lodge Room , 4 

Regulations for Opening and Closing the Lodge — 

Opening the Lodge 5 

Opening Ode 8 

Order of Business 9 

Closing the Lodge 10 

Closing Ode 10 

Instructions for Opening and Closing in Initiatory and 

other Degrees 11 

Special Instructions 13 

Voting 14 

Alarms 14 

Password of the Current Term 14 

Signs 15 

Regalia 15 

Charter 15 

Bible ,.. 16 

Visiting by Card and Otherwise 16 

Instructions in Conferring the Initiatory Degree 18 

The Charge Book 19 

Form of Initiation 20 

Conductor's First Charge 20 

Conductor's Second Charge 21 

Scene Supporter's First Charges 21 

Right Scene Supporter's Second Charge 22 

Left Scene Supporter's Second Charge 23 

Conductor's Third Charge 23 

Candidate Presented to the Warden , 23 

Warden's Charge 24 

Candidate Presented to the Vice Grand 24 

Vice Grand's First Charge 24 

Obligation 25 

Continuation of Vice Grand's Charge 26 

Initiation Ode 27 

Conductor's Address to Right Supporter of the Noble Grand 27 

Candidate Presented to the Noble Grand 28 

Noble Grand's Charge 28 



90 INDEX* 






PAGE. 

Secret Work of the Initiatory Degree 30 

First Part 30 

Entersign 30 

Countersign 30 

Explanation of Countersign 30 

Password of the Initiatory Degree 30 

Grip 30 

Continuation of Noble Grand's Charge 31 

Candidate Presented to the Acting Past Grand..., 33 

Past Grand's Charge 33 

Candidate first Designated as a Brother , 35 

The Brother signs the Constitution 36 

Continuation of Noble Grand's Charge 36 

The Brother Works his way into the Lodge Room 36 

Continuation of the Secret Work of the Initiatory Degree... 36 

The Sign of Distress 37 

Answer to the Sign of Distress 37 

Explanation of Same 37 

The Sign of Recognition 37 

The Use of the Gavel 37 

The newly -made Brother is Introduced to the Brothers 37 

New Beautified Floor Work 38 

First Forming of Officers on Floor 41 

Procession of Officers into Lodge Room 42 

Second Forming of Officers on Floor , 43 

The Procession 45 

The Scene 45 

Location of Officers at Scene 45 

Time of Delivery of Noble Grand's Charge 47 

Time of Delivery of Past Grand's Charge 47 

Instructions for Degree Lodges 48 

Opening for Regular Chartered Degree Lodges 49 

Closing Regular Chartered Degree Lodges 51 

First Degree or "Degree of Friendship," Part First.., 52 

Obligation of First Degree 54 

First Degree, Part Second 54 

Secret Work of the First Degree 58 

The Alarm 58 

Password of First Degree.. 58 

Explanation of Password 58 

Countersign 58 

The Sign 58 



INDEX. 91 

Secret "Work of the First Degree— Continued. page. 

Answer to the Sign 59 

Memento 59 

The Warning Sign 59 

The Sign of Safety 59 

The Sign of Danger 59 

The Grip 59 

Token 59 

Concluding Charge of First Degree 60 

Instructions for the Second Degree 62 

Second Degree or the "Degree of Brotherly Love," Part 

First 62 

Obligation of Second Degree 64 

Second Degree, Part Second 64 

The Good Samaratan 66 

Secret Work of the Second Degree 69 

The Alarm 69 

The Password 69 

The Countersign 69 

The Sign 69 

Answer to the Sign 69 

The Grip 69 

Token 69 

Lecture of the Degree of " Brotherly Love" 71 

Third Degree or the " Degree of Truth," Part First 74 

Obligation of Third Degree 77 

Third Degree, Part Second 77 

Lectures of the Third Degree 79 

Symbols of the Initiatory Degree and their Teachings 79 

The " All Seeing Eye" signifies 79 

The "Three Links "signify 79 

The "Skull and Cross-Bones " signify 80 

The "Scythe" signifies 80 

Symbols ot the First Degree and their Teachings.... 80 

The " Bow and Arrows" signify 80 

The "Quiver "signifies 80 

The "Bundle of Sticks " signify 81 

Symbols of the Second Degree and their Teachings 81 

The "Axe" signifies 81 

The "Heart and Hands " signify 81 

The "Globe" signifies 81 

The "Ark" signifies 82 

The "Serpent" signifies 82 



92 INDEX. 

PAGE. 

Symbols of the Third Degree and their Teachings 82 

The "Scales and Sword" signify 82 

The "Bible" signifies 82 

The "Hour-Glass" signifies 83 

The "Coffin" signifies 83 

Concluding Charge 83 

The Brother Presented with the Collar 84 

Secret Work of the Third Degree 84 

The Alarm 84 

The Password 84 

The Countersign 85 

The Working Sign 85 

Answer 85 

Explanation of Working Sign 85 

The Principle Sign 85 

Grip 85 

Voting Sign 85 

Concluding Instructions 85 

The Honors of the Order 86 

Greeted as a Brother in Friendship 87 

Greeted as a Brother in Brotherly Love 87 

Welcomed as a Brother in Truth 87 

Welcomed by the Lodge 87 

Compiler's Note,... ..... ..,...,.. 88 



Members o f the Order who secure 
a copy of this work will at once recog- 
nize its importance and the aid it is 
to them. 

Members in good 'standing who de- 
sire to act as our agents, will be sup- 
plied at the rate of $8.5© per dozen 
copies. Post or Express prepaid to any 
address. Money must accompany all 
orders by mail, or will be sent C. O. I>. 
by Express (charges prepaid). If de- 
sired, Clubs may avail themselves of 
this offer, if they so choose. Single 
copies, gl.OO. 

We are also prepared to furnish 
Regalias, Jewels, Banners, etc., etc., of 
the I. O. O. F., at the very lowest possi- 
ble figures, and at the shortest notice. 
Our opportunities for so doing cannot 
be excelled. 

Printing— our facilities for the print- 
ing of By-Laws etc., etc., connected with 
the Order cannot be surpassed, being 
especially adapted to furnish this class 
of work. Estimates furnished and com- 
petent work guaranteed. 

We would be obliged to Secretaries 
if they would kindly forward us a copy 
their last By-Laws. 

Respectfully and Fraternally yours, 
(HIS. SIMCOE <V CO., 

171 Race St., Cincinnati, O. 



14 

4. 



16 









20 22 



m 



nN' 



<b 



N 



,N 



S> 



$ 



r& 



*±- 



